Sarcophagus of the Two Brothers
Carved in high relief for an elite burial, this Late Antique sarcophagus arranges favorite early Christian stories—Jonah saved, Daniel protected, Christ as Good Shepherd—around two youthful male portraits. The mix of Old and New Testament scenes is not narrative but doctrinal: images of deliverance and resurrection set the brothers’ hope in stone. The style is still Roman—column screens, busy friezes, deep drillwork—yet the content is now Christian, a bridge between Empire and Church.
Why This Artwork Is Important
- Prime example of Late Antique Christian iconography in Roman funerary format.
- Pairs portrait likeness with salvation themes to voice belief in resurrection.
What to Look For
- Central clipei (roundels) with the two brothers’ busts.
- Jonah asleep under the vine; Daniel between lions.
- Good Shepherd carrying a ram across his shoulders.
Fun Fact
Early Christian sarcophagi reused Roman workshop patterns—new meanings carved onto familiar templates.
Last Minute Offers
Find the cheapest last-minute offers to visit Pius-Christian Museum and see Sarcophagus of the Two Brothers with your own eyes!
| Date | Tickets | Tours |
|---|---|---|
| Buy for €39 | Buy for €70 | |
| Buy for €34 | Buy for €65 | |
| Buy for €56 | Buy for €75 | |
| Buy for €72 | Buy for €89 | |
| Buy for €65 | Buy for €77 | |
| Buy for €65 | Buy for €77 |
