Full Description
Originally published in 1912, this book consists of a large selection of ancient Christian inscriptions, mainly of Roman origin, together with an elementary treatise on the subject of Christian epigraphy. The text is particularly notable for being the creation of Orazio Marucchi (1852-1931), a prominent disciple of the great Italian archaeologist Giovanni Battista de Rossi (1822-94). Inscriptions are organised into a wide variety of classes; explanations regarding their respective source are given beneath. Additionally, there are a number of images showing inscriptions in their original form. Chiefly written for young students of the time, this remains a fascinating book that will be of value to anyone with an interest in archaeology or early Christianity.
Contents
Prefaratory note; Preliminary notice; Introduction - general information; Part I. General Statement: 1. Preliminary notes on the original sources of the study of ancient Christian epigraphy and on the bibliography concerning it. Principal collections of Christian inscriptions existing in Rome; 2. General facts concerning Christian inscriptions; 3. Of symbols. Interpunctuation; 4. Metrical inscriptions; Part II. A Collection of Christian Inscriptions, Mainly from Rome, in their Various Classes: 1. Primitive inscriptions, with primitive formulae; 2. Doctrinal inscriptions (general features); 3. Inscriptions bearing on sacraments; 4. Inscriptions relating to the doctrine of the 'Communion of Saints'; 5. Inscriptions bearing on the organisation of the early Christian society; 6. General information on inscriptions bearing consular dates or other chronological indications. Of the Dionysian or Vulgar era; 7. Inscriptions selected for certain special expressions ejaculations - language bearing on the conception of a future life; 8. The Damasian inscriptions; 9. Appendix to the Damasian inscriptions; 10. Illustrations of historical (non-Damasian) inscriptions from the fourth to the sixth century; 11. 'Graffiti' or inscriptions scratched by early visitors in the Roman catacombs; Appendix; Note.
