Kosher Bread Stamp
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The 'Kosher Bread Stamp' is an ancient stamp that dates back to the 5th century CE.[1][2] Written in the paleo-Hebrew alphabet, it is part of a larger group of artifacts known as Canaanite and Aramaic seal inscriptions.
| Kosher Bread Stamp | |
|---|---|
| Material | Ceramic |
| Writing | Greek letters |
| Created | 4-5th century CE |
| Period/culture | Byzantine Period |
| Discovered | Horbat 'Uza, Israel |
Discovery
The Israel Antiquities Authority found the stamp during excavations at Horbat Uza.[3]
The Stamp
The ceramic stamp is engraved with a seven-branched Temple menorah at its narrow base.[4] A number of Greek letters and a dot are engraved around a circle and on the end of the handle.[5]
The artifact was used to identify Kosher goods and likely belonged to a bakery that supplied Jewish people in Acre.[6]
The name "Launtius" engraved on the handle of the stamp is likely the name of the baker.[7]