Jewish Sarcophagus (lead) Beth She'arim, Early Byzantine period, 04th century AD

This coffin was apparently made in Phoenicia, in a workshop whose coffins were characterized by the motifs of vine branches, leaves, vases, and birds. At the request of the purchaser, Jewish symbols were added to these: the menorah, an incense shovel, and the Four pecies. Lead coffins were common in the Land of Israel in the 3rd–4th century CE, being a less expensive alternative to stone or marble coffins. They were produced using a special casting technique. Stamps with designs in relief were sunk into wet sand, creating a mold into which hot lead was poured. The workshops that made these coffins served people of all faiths, with clients selecting symbols appropriate to their faith.