Narrative scenes on Byzantine lead seals (sixth-twelfth centuries): frequency, iconography, and clientele

• Autores: John Cotsonis
• Localización: Gesta, ISSN 0016-920X, Vol. 48, Nº. 1, 2009, págs. 55-86
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • Based on a database of 7,978 lead seals with religious figural imagery, this paper focuses on the relatively small group that bear depictions of narrative scenes. The study examines the number and variety of such images, their chronological frequency and percentile distribution, and their iconographic changes over time. One table and four graphs display the numeric and statistical results, which are compared with trends found in other media. The inscriptions accompanying many of the narrative scenes are also discussed to investigate how these images were understood and to which social group they belonged. This large body of data provides further insight into the place, use, and appreciation of narrative scenes within the sphere of personal devotions and the broader realm of Byzantine culture.