Archaeologists in Jerusalem’s Davidson Archaeological Park have uncovered an extraordinary lead pendant decorated with a seven-branched menorah on both sides, dating to the late Byzantine period (sixth–early seventh centuries CE). Found in the rubble of a building later buried under Umayyad construction, the pendant is one of only two known lead menorah pendants in the world. Laboratory analysis shows it is nearly pure lead, a material often used for amulets in this time. The pendant’s small size, loop for wearing, and prominent menorah imagery suggest it was intended for personal devotion and protection. Its double-sided design high-lights the central role […]
