Not quite defeat...

I am in a bit of a quandary.  Yesterday Dr. Schuler sent me my second assignment:

So what do you think it looks like?  Dr. Schuler suggested an incense shovel, like the ones below:

As implied in the name, this particular tool could have been used as "snuff dishes" for cleaning up burned wicks from lamps or incense holders in temples or churches.  Now, to our archaeologists digging up little beyond pot sherds and pieces of bones, this certainly is an impressive find.  However, apparently these types of rectangular incense shovels are relatively common - especially since they appear as early as the eight century BC! 

But take another look at NEC'S compared to one of the real incense shovels:

Notice that NEC's "shovel" has all four sides, while all the other shovels are missing one edge for scooping.  Furthermore, these shovels are more commonly related to pagan cults and Judaism - but at least one was found with a cross engraving.  I also cannot see what the sides of these shovels look like - if they are open as NEC's is or if they are closed.  Also, is the shovel as deep as NEC'S?  Too many questions exist to make a definitive identification.      

So, after searching through the entire "bronze" section in the library, wading through archaeological reports and sifting through countless books on Byzantium, I feel about as satisfied as a day on the dig with no finds.