Deesis

(noun)

A traditional iconic representation of Christ in Majesty enthroned, carrying a book, and flanked by the Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist, and sometimes other saints and angels.

Related Terms

  • Katholikon
  • triptych
  • reliquary
  • Lamentation of Christ
  • icon
  • psalter
  • iconostasis
  • cloisonne

(noun)

An iconic representation, common in the Byzantine period, of Christ enthroned, Christ Pantocrator, surrounded by the Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist, often in supplication.

Related Terms

  • Katholikon
  • triptych
  • reliquary
  • Lamentation of Christ
  • icon
  • psalter
  • iconostasis
  • cloisonne

Examples of Deesis in the following topics:

  • Objects of Worship in the Middle Byzantine Empire

    • The Harbaville Triptych depicts a scene of Deesis with Christ as the Pantokrator, while the Borradaile Triptych depicts an image of the Crucifixion.
    • The main scene depicts the figures of Christ Pantokrator flanked by John the Baptist and the Virgin Mary, in a supplication scene known as a Deesis.
    • The Borradaile Triptych's main image depicts the Crucifixion of Christ instead of a Deesis.
  • Painting in the Late Byzantine Empire

    • Icons were placed on the iconostasis following a general guideline that included the presence of a Deesis, Christ enthroned surrounded by John the Baptist and the Theotokos.
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