The polykandelon is a perforated disc with six holes, into which glass lamps are fitted. The suspension chains are themselves suspended from a smaller disc decorated with a cross inscribed with words ΜΑΡΗΑΝΟΥ Α΄ CΠΑΘΑΡΙΟΥ (Protospatharios). The inscription commemorates the owner of the polykandelon, a Byzantine dignitary, thus justifying its exquisite workmanship. Similar lighting devices embellished churches and mansions from late Roman times to the Middle Byzantine period. The polykandelon can be dated to the 8th century.
Inv. No. 32651