A pyxis is a type of vessel from the classical world, usually a cylindrical box with a separate lid. Originally mostly used by women to hold cosmetics, trinkets or jewellery, surviving pyxides are mostly Greek pottery, but especially in later periods may be in wood, metal, ivory, or other materials. This pyxis, from Mycenae is decorated with horses on the lid and painted hooked crosses, a motif that has been a holy symbol in Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism for centuries. It is a sign of well-being and long life, and was found everywhere, from the tombs of early Christians to the catacombs of Rome and appears to have first been used in Eurasia, as early as 7, 000 years ago, perhaps representing the movement of the sun through the sky.