From the Catacomb of Hermes. Earliest dated example, A. D. 234.
Fig. 53.—Fish and Dove.
From the Catacomb of St. Priscilla.
Fig. 54.—Eucharistic Symbol.
This sacred fish is sometimes represented, as in [Fig. 54], from the crypt of St. Lucina, bearing what seems to be a basket of bread and a flagon of wine on its back, or occasionally a loaf of bread in its mouth. In these cases there is probably a reference to the bread of life which Christ breaks to his disciples, or possibly to the holy eucharist. Sometimes a bird is pictured as deriving nourishment from the
mouth of a fish, the symbol of a soul receiving refreshment from Christ. The eucharist is also thought to be indicated by frequent representations of a fish and bread on a table, sometimes with a figure in prayer standing by; and also by a picture of seven persons eating a repast of bread and fish together, probably Christ dining with the disciples by the sea-shore after his resurrection.