A fine terracotta pilgrim token of a Stylite saint, probably St Symeon. The token is circular in shape with a domed back and irregular edges depicting in the centre a stylite saint atop a pillar (i.e. ‘style’). Two angels are visible on either side of the saint. The ladder leaning against the column on the right serves as a visual representation of his connection to the Earth and his disciples. A ridged vessel is depicted in the lower left field. A granulated frame surrounds the image. Possessing such token of the Empire was not only a spiritual blessing and souvenir for the pilgrim, but also a ‘get-home-free’ pass to prove one’s Orthodoxy should one find oneself detained by imperial troops, at the time when Byzantine Empire was still fiercely persecuting and murdering Monophysite Christians. Measurements: (circa) Diameter 2.4cm x H 0.8cm Provenance: Collection of Biblical antiquities of a London gentleman