Графитто в виде креста на прямоугольной подставке на средневековой керамике из Херсонеса

Abstract

The given publication is devoted research of one sign on a medieval amphora from Chersonesos (Byzantine Cherson). The mark in the form of a cross on a rectangular base is put on a neck of an import vessel of the last third of the X-XI centuries found in a cistern excavation in dwelling house of the IX-XI centuries in Cherson. Among medieval graffiti from Cherson the exact analogy of this image is unknown. There are some examples of drawing of a similar symbol on transport vessels of the Byzantine time from the Eastern Crimea and Sarkel. Crosses of different kinds have received a wide spreading as building marks on a tile during a medieval time. The cross on a base, so called the cross on the Golgotha, is known among the graffiti on the churches of ancient Kiev. The theme of the cross on an eminence is traced in symbolical images of Christian temples; such drawings were found in the church of Cyril in Kiev and on Early Bulgarian strengthened settlement Tzar Asen. The cross on a base is a traditional image on coins and the seals of Byzantine Cherson. In researches of the studying of medieval graffiti there is no common opinion about appointment of this symbol: a sign on the owner of a thing, a workshop sign, customs marks, capacity of container and the description of the goods. Possibly, in this case it is necessary to consider studying experience amphorae stamps and to draw parallels from images on coins to signs on ceramics. Early such communications have already been established at studying of labels-abbreviations and monograms on building ceramics and coins of Chersonesos in the IX-XI centuries.