Pyxis with the Miracle of
Christ’s Multiplication of the Loaves, 6th century, probably made in North Africa, Metropolitan Museum of Art
(New York) ■ In this depiction of the Miracle of the Loaves
(Mark 8:1–6), an enthroned Christ is flanked by Saints Peter and Paul. Other
disciples carry the loaves of bread he has miraculously produced to feed the
multitude, loaves that the early church associated with the bread of the
Eucharist. It is possible that containers like this were used in connection
with the Divine Liturgy ■