The Religious Figural Imagery of Byzantine Lead Seals I: Studies on the Image of Christ, the Virgin and Narrative Scenes

This volume explores the religious figural imagery of Byzantine lead seals,from the 6th to the 15th century,using tables,charts,and graphs to analyze iconographic trends and changing popularity of saintly figures. It also provides insight into the social use of sacred imagery through the various sectors of Byzantine culture. Other studies focus on rare or previously unknown sacred images,demonstrating the value of the iconography of Byzantine lead seals for Byzantine studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 340 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This volume presents a collection of groundbreaking studies that utilize a vast array of religious figural imagery found on Byzantine lead seals, spanning from the 6th to the 15th century. Several of these studies present tables, charts, and graphs to analyze the evolving trends in iconography and the changing popularity of saintly figures over time. Moreover, as many of these seals bear inscriptions that include the names, titles, or offices of their owners, information that is often not provided for the patrons of sacred images in other media, these diminutive objects offer a unique opportunity to investigate the social use of sacred imagery across various sectors of Byzantine culture, including the civil, ecclesiastical, and military administrations.

The religious figural imagery of the lead seals, coupled with their owners' identifying inscriptions, provides a valuable means of exploring both the broader visual piety of the Byzantine world and the intimate realm of their owners' personal devotions. In addition to these scholarly investigations, this volume also includes studies dedicated to rare or previously unknown sacred images that showcase the significance of Byzantine lead seals in Byzantine studies as a whole.

The image of Christ, primarily depicted on imperial seals, is a central focus of this volume. Various images of the Virgin Mary are also included, along with narrative or Christological scenes. A companion volume presents a range of articles that explore sphragistic images of saints and delve into the religious imagery of Byzantine seals as a tool for investigating the personal piety of seal owners, as well as the broader realm of the visual piety and religious devotions of Byzantine culture at all levels.

In conclusion, this volume offers a comprehensive examination of the religious figural imagery of Byzantine lead seals, shedding light on their historical significance, cultural context, and artistic evolution. Through these groundbreaking studies, scholars and enthusiasts alike gain a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of Byzantine religious expression and its profound impact on the world.

Weight: 630g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032336701