No 23D

Location: On the second marble slab from the right, on the western wall, in the southern gallery.

Material: Marble surface, 6th century.

Dimensions: Height 14.5 cm, width 9.5 cm, at eye level.

Condition: Shallow and distinct carvings, not intersected by other marks.

Technique: Incised.

Description: Contour drawing of a Greek cross with three terminating branches on each arm, giving it a tree-like appearance reminiscent of the Tree of Life.

Attribution: Cross representing the Tree of Life, apotropaic device.

Publications: none.

Commentary: The incised motif, with its three-branched terminals on each arm, merges the form of the cross with the image of a living tree. Such “forked-armed crosses” are interpreted as symbols of regeneration and divine protection, reflecting the theological concept of the Cross as the Arbor Vitae or the "Tree of Life" in Byzantine visual culture.

Date: Unknown.