An ancient Byzantine Empire hand carved Basalt stone relief ware, probably stamp. The ware is adorned with a hand carved image of a Judaica menora. Circa: 9th century AD. The Byzantine Empire, also referred to as the Eastern Roman Empire or Byzantium, was the continuation of the Roman Empire in its eastern provinces during Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages, when its capital city was Constantinople. Ancient Natural Stone Wares, Museum Pieces For Collectors.