Altars of Dura Europos

TNMM 731 ↔ CIMRM 35 & 36

The main altar (see fig. 12, I).

"All of plaster, the main altar had a square base topped by a quarter-round molding from which sprang the columnar engaged shaft. The top, 0.73 square with a molded point at each corner, projected for one third of its width over the altar table. The central depression was blackened and contained cinders.

To the left of this large altar, 0.08 lower than the altar table and attached to it, were two smaller altars of molded form. Their bases and tops were square, changing in an unbroken surface to a rounded central shaft. The corners of each top were brought to a point.

The central depression of 3 was rimmed with a ring of plaster opened in front to form a nearly closed horse-shoe and the rim had around its edge twelve equally spaced holes about 0.004 in diam. The central depression of 2 was rimmed with a simple smooth ring of plaster.

Both altars contained marks of fire and cinders, although their material and position would not have allowed a hot or continuous fire to burn there".

CIMRM 36

"The south end of the altar table was built up around a wooden block or box, replacing the early low portion of the table there. The plaster altar bowl was replaced by an earthenware pot which was propped up by a reused inscription, and a round pierced bronze ornament indicating the ceremonial placement of the bowl.

Under all these additions were found inserted great quantities of small bird, sheep, and fish bones. On the left, beneath the built-in box or block were found eight simple lamps, one broken" (Report, 75).