Porphyry Sarcophagus of Constantina

Carved for Constantina (Saint Costanza), this porphyry sarcophagus replaces battle scenes with a flowing vine scroll. Winged putti gather grapes, press juice, and dance among leaves—imagery long tied to Dionysus that early Christians adapted toward Eucharistic promise. The material stays imperial; the message shifts to salvation. Together with Helena's coffin, it shows a dynasty teaching with Rome's most precious stone.