BZ.1945.7, Boss with Chrismon

Byzantine Collection, Dumbarton Oaks Museum

Early Byzantine, late fifth–early sixth century

Limestone, 35.6 cm x 35.6 cm x 8.3 cm (14 in. x 14 in. x 3 1/4 in.)

Mildred Barnes Bliss and Robert Woods Bliss acquired this boss from the Beirut dealer Elias (Elie) Bustros in 1940. The sculpture was held in customs in France during the Second World War and was not received at Dumbarton Oaks until December 1945.