Ostrakon with a Letter from Pesynthius to Peter

Unknown

580–640 · Pottery fragment with ink inscription · Medieval Art

Ostraca are texts written on broken pottery, which were employed when parchment was unavailable or too expensive. At Epiphanius a large number of ostraca were discovered in the monastery, including in its rubbish heaps; they record biblical verses, legal documents, sermons, financial accounts, school texts, and letters requesting assistance and prayers. Some reveal that, even at the southernmost border of the Empire, people were still aware of events in the capital, Constantinople. Ostracon with a Letter from Pesynthius to Peter Be so good and go unto the dwelling of Athanasius, the son of Sabinus, the craftsman, and get good goat skins, either 3 or 4, or whatsoever thou shalt find of good (ones); and do thou bring them me, that I may choose one therefrom for this book. But hasten and bring them. And if Athanasius desire to bring them, and he come, [let him] bring them. If thou find not (skins) with him, … another craftsman and bring [them]. Give to unto Peter; from Pesynthius, this humblest one.

Artist

Unknown

Date

580–640

Medium

Pottery fragment with ink inscription

Culture

Coptic

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1914