126

A large postclassical agate intaglio. Tau cross with inscription., 18th century or later

20 x 4 mm

Tau cross, with INRI inscription at the top, and S-T at the sides. The tau cross was adopted as a symbol by the Hospitaller Friars of Saint Anthony the Hermit, an order founded in 1095 in Saint Antoine of Vienne, France, and dedicated to the care of lepers and other sick people. In the following century, at the instigation of Saint Francis himself, it was adopted by the Franciscans and the Templars. Wear marks and old deposit.