DISCO

DISCO. — The term *discus* or *missionum* and improperly *bouclier* (shield) is commonly used to designate a concave plate of silver or other precious material, of varying size, adorned with relief scenes of mythological, historical, symbolic, or genre subjects. The word *missionum* belongs to the language of Late Latin and appears in an inventory of silverware found in Gaul, in Gregory of Tours (*Hist. Francor.*, IV, 2; VII, 4), in Isidore of Seville (*Etymologiae*, XX, 4, *De vasis escaris*: PL 82, 715), who explains the use of this utensil: *«Missionum vocatum a mensa, per derivationem quasi mensorium»*. This object, variously named in literary sources and characteristic of the Roman imperial period, has come down to us in numerous examples spanning a chronological period from the mid-4th to the mid-6th century AD. It was offered as a gift by emperors, consuls, and high officials to their friends on the occasion of festivals or other events, and generally served as a table ornament. In the Christian world, it assumed a predominantly votive character and became part of the treasuries of basilicas. Notable examples include the *discus* of Valentinian I, found near Geneva, depicting the emperor surrounded by six soldiers; the *discus* of Theodosius, found in Extremadura, showing the emperor seated between Valentinian II and the young Arcadius; and the *discus* with the figure of Ardaburius Aspar, a barbarian who was consul under Theodosius, originating from the territory of Cosa (Etruria). A considerable quantity of silver plates has been discovered in Russia and on the island of Cyprus: noteworthy is one found in the catacomb of Kerch, from the first half of the 6th century, with an engraved representation of the triumph of an unidentified emperor, and the Cypriot series depicting episodes from the life of David, from the 6th century.