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

(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

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.