No 3M

Location: On the northwest column in the western bay of the south gallery (immediately after entering the gallery).

Material: Marble surface, 6th century.

Dimensions: 4 cm (height) by 2.5 cm (width), at eye level.

Condition: Lightly incised; not intersected by other marks.

Technique: Incised.

Description: A contour drawing of a large Latin letter 'N' whose right vertical bar transforms into a single-barred cross.

Аttribution: An apotropaic and devotional mark symbolizing the Victorious Cross of Christ.

Publications: none.

Commentary: The design can be interpreted as a symbolic acclamation: the form resembles the letters ΝΙΚΗ (Nike), meaning “Victory” (imperative of νικάω, “to conquer”), and is comparable to inscriptions of IC XC NIKA (“Jesus Christ Conquers”). This interpretation fits especially well with the context of devotional graffiti in a sacred space.

Date: Late Byzantine period.