The raven symbolised the first level of initiation to the Mithraic mysteries.

The Mithras cult was only accessible to the initiated and was practiced in secret. The worshipers went through seven levels of tests. Each level was asssociated with a symbol. The seven levels were:

1. Corax (raven)
2. Nymph (bridegroom)
3. Miles (soldier)
4. Leo (lion)
5. Perses (Persian)
6. Heliodromos (son-runner)
7. Pater (father)

Mosaics depicting all seven levels are the source of information on the initiation.

Location
found 1902.

Archaeology
red sandstone; height 38.5cm.

Literature
Mattern 2005, 81 Nr. 91.