Late Roman to Early Byzantine silver spoon (typically called a cochlearium) The square-section handle features an ancient Greek inscription written in niello inlay that reads +ПОΛIХРОΝIОY (Polychroniou). Prefaced by a Christian cross This inscription acts as an acronymic acronym or acclamation commonly meaning "long life" or "many years," which was a frequent blessing used in Byzantine society. Circa:5th.-7th.. Century AD. Provenance: British collection since the 95s. Previous Europe collection 80s Item will be safe pack with a gift box and send with registration and insurance mail The seller guarantees that he acquired this piece according to all national and international laws related to the ownership of cultural property. Provenance statement was seen by Catawiki. The Seller can prove that the lot was obtained legally, provenance statement seen by Catawiki. Important information. The Seller guarantees that he is entitled to ship this lot. THE Seller will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days. Catawiki disclaimer: This object has been dated based on style by the seller . No further tests, such as an analysis of metals(XRF-test) have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece.