Abstract:
This article explores the development of the theme of the Life-giving Spring in
Byzantine iconography. The path towards its establishment was initiated at the moment
when a representation rule, an original convention was set. Thereafter, because of its
diffusion in time and space, the theme became enriched by particular mentalities and
sensibilities of the epochs and the communities that adopted it as a form of devotion
for the Virgin Theotokos. As a result, the representations we have known so far are
extremely varied.
CONTRIBUTION : The final purpose of this approach, as well as its contribution, is to highlight
the diverse unity of the iconographic tradition and illustrate both the evolution of the
theme in the painting of Romanian church artists and its gradual refinement through the
incorporation of diverse nuances and new perspectives.
Description:
Special Collection: Lucian Blaga University, Sibiu, Romania, sub-edited by Daniel Buda (Lucian Blaga University) and Jerry Pillay
(University of Pretoria).
