Rare Bulgarian revival carving showcased in museum

The National Ethnographic Museum has expanded its collection with the acquisition of a rare and valuable prosphora stamp dating from the late 19th to early 20th century, the Institute of Ethnology and Folklore Studies with Ethnographic Museum said in a press release Wednesday.

Prosphora is a leavened bread used in Orthodox Christian services, CE Report quotes BTA.

The prosphora stamp measures 14cm by 14.4 cm and features a detailed depiction of Saint Tryphon on its front. The saint is shown holding a pruning knife used in viticulture in his right hand and a shepherd’s staff in his left, alongside a basket of fruit and wheat. The intricate carving includes fine ornamentation and Greek inscriptions, suggesting a possible monastic origin. On the reverse side, the stamp has a square handle, also engraved with the symbols IC/XC/NI/KA, meaning "Jesus Christ conquers".

Experts note that the piece is a rare example of late Bulgarian Revival woodcarving and is preserved in excellent condition, indicating minimal use.

Saint Tryphon, a 3rd-century Christian martyr from Phrygia, is widely venerated in the Balkans, particularly in connection with viticulture. His feast day on February 14, known as Trifon Zarezan, is among the most distinctive traditional celebrations linked to winemaking in the region.