Dated to the early 6th century, it depicts an archangel holding a sceptre and imperial orb.

The archangel is usually identified as Michael, and the panel is assumed to have formed the right part of a diptych, with the lost left half possibly depicting Emperor Justinian (reigned 527–565),[1] to whom the archangel would be offering the insignia of imperial power.

The panel is the largest single piece of carved Byzantine ivory that survives,[1] at 42.9 × 14.3 cm (16 7/8 × 5 5/8 in).

Translated as "Receive this suppliant, despite his sinfulness", it might be an expression of humility on the part of Justinian.

[1] Interpreted as the beginning of an inscription that continues on the lost second panel, it may read, "Receive these gifts, and having learned the cause...".