Recording-2025-03-12T00:10:07.359Z

Triptych Overview

• A triptych consists of three parts or pieces, in contrast to a diptych, which has two.

• The Harbaville triptych is named after a 19th-century owner, and represents a portable altar for personal prayer and spiritual status.

Design and Materials

• Triptychs were often crafted from ivory, gold, and enamel, signifying both spiritual value and wealth.

• The structure includes a central panel flanked by two wings that close over it, offering an intimate representation of its devotional purpose.

Imagery and Symbolism

• The triptych features two registers with figures in an undefined space:

  • Top Center: Jesus enthroned between Mary and Saint John, symbolizing intercession for humanity (Diasis).

  • Bottom Panel: Saint Peter depicted under Jesus, with other saints (Paul, John, Andrew).

  • Wings' Figures: Military saints and personal portraits of the patrons, indicating status and devotion.

• Figures are individualized, moving away from traditional frontal poses to a varied representation, displaying three-quarter views and profiles.

Closed View and Symbolism

• In the closed view, the front shows a cross inscribed with letters I C and X C (Jesus Christ), below which is the word Nika (victory).

• The ivory carvings detail two historical figures: Emperor Romanos II and Empress Eudokia, representing a personal relationship with holy figures.

• Their depictions convey notions of strength in faith and authority, with imaginative portrayals of children presented as adults.

The Paris Psalter

• The Paris Psalter, a book of psalms, emphasizes King David's authorship attributed to him as a significant musical and royal figure.

• It features 14 illustrations, with 8 focusing on David, where he is depicted in a royal manner reminiscent of Orpheus from Greek mythology.

  • Depictions demonstrate a blend of pagan and Christian imagery.

• The artwork exhibits a classical influence with naturalistic poses and drapery, moving past strict geometric styles.

The Virgin of Vladimir Icon

• Virgin of Vladimir icon, likely made in Constantinople, showcases a tender portrayal of Mary and baby Jesus, marking a shift in emotional representation.

  • Its historical significance lies in its earlier depictions of maternal affection, setting the stage for future works.

• Constant retouching has left the icon in a deteriorated state but maintains its importance in artistic lineage.

Saint Michael Icon

• This icon of Saint Michael the Archangel shows him with a sword and orb of authority, demonstrating luxurious enamel techniques like cloisonne, which creates vibrant hues.

  • Despite wear, the artistic complexity showcases the transition towards a luscious Byzantine aesthetic.

• Many icons were transported to the West by Crusaders post-Byzantine golden age, illustrating cultural exchanges.

Church of Christ in Cora Renovation

• Church of Christ in Cora, renovated by Theodore Metochetes, features a major expansion and decorative frescoes highlighting scenes from the Old and New Testaments.

  • Notable fresco: Anastasis (Resurrection)—Jesus rescuing Adam and Eve from Limbo, indicative of apocryphal narratives.

• Decor affects perspective, with a more humane and emotional connection, demonstrated in Mary's childhood mosaic.

Byzantine Artistic Perspective

• Icons emphasized narrative over realistic representation, focusing on iconography over naturalism, often leading to a unique artistic formula.

  • Following Constantinople's fall, Russia viewed itself as the Third Rome and intensified icon veneration, leading to a flourishing cultural revival in Eastern Orthodoxy.

The Icon of the Trinity by Andrey Rublyov

• The Trinity icon, depicting Abraham's visitation by three angels, reflects the theological transition towards trinitarian symbolism.

  • Figures are geometrically stylized and meant to present a unified spiritual essence rather than individual distinction.

• Icons served functional purposes in worship and processions, meant to educate viewers through vivid imagery.