No 5D
Location: On the northwest side of the northwest column in the central part of the northern nave.
Material: Marble surface, 6th century.
Dimensions: Total height 17 cm, length 19.3 cm, at 115 cm above floor level.
Condition: Shallow carving, not intersected by others.
Description: A horizontal composition depicting two pairs of peacocks flanking a cross, superimposed over a building with a triangular roof on the right. The peacocks are rendered in profile in a resting pose. While stylized, their defining attributes are clearly discernible: a distinct crest-crown, subtly suggested wings, and tail plumage indicated by short, incised lines.
The two crosses feature transverse arms with widening ends. The apocalyptic letters A (Alpha) and Ω (Omega) are suspended from the arms. The cross tops are fitted with small lines, indicating attached circular or teardrop-shaped ornaments. These elements signify a solemn, triumphal character, identifying them as representations of processional crosses used in liturgical ceremonies.
Beneath this group stands a stylized rectangular building, identified as a basilica by its architectural features. The triangular pediment contains a round window, while the section below implies a doorway. The roof ridge is articulated by a broken line forming pinnacles, beneath which lies a second strip of pinnacles and a pattern of checkerboard squares representing the side wall construction.
Attribution: The ensemble - combining the Cross of Christ, the peacocks (symbols of immortality), and the basilica (representing the Church or the Heavenly Jerusalem) - visually articulates the Christian doctrine that eternal life in Heaven is attained through faith in Christ.
Publications: Tomov, T. Risunki-grafiti ot severnija korab na hrama „Sv. Sofia“, Konstantinopol (Istanbul). Izkustvo i vreme. Sbornik v čest na 80 godišninata na Ivan Marazov, Sofia: Nov bǎlgarski unijaersitet 2023, 382-383.
Date: Approximately Early Byzantine period.