Ecumenical Synods in the Narthex of Sǒpocani Monastery’s Church in Medieval Serbia
Ecumenical Synods in the Narthex of Sǒpocani Monastery’s Church in Medieval Serbia

Summary/Abstract: The theme of Ecumenical Synods is one of the most significant within the Byzantine iconography of narthexes and appeared for the first time in the Serbian medieval space at the Sǒpocani Monastery’s church. Subsequently this theme became almost mandatory in narthex iconography of most medieval churches in Serbia. An original feature of the narthex at Sǒpocani is illustrated by the presence, alongside the seven ecumenical synods, of an eighth local synod, i.e. the one convened by Stefan Nemanja, founder of the Nemanjić dynasty and of numerous churches in Serbia, the ruler who unified Serbians into one of the strongest medieval states. With the passing of time, due to the assembly of Serbian local synods and their importance for the Serbian state and church, the replacement of the seven Ecumenical Synods with these local assemblies was imposed for the narthex decoration. These “alterations” in the paintings at Sopoćani were made to the Ecumenical Synods depicted in the narthex and the votive panel from the nave. The innovation brought about by these synods resides not only in the theme but also in the manner of representation. The artist at Sǒpocani is distinguished by his painting technique, clearly superior to other medieval paintings from Serbia through its refined talent and noble artistic ambitions. The characters’ faces seem to glow with kindness and calm. The beautiful faces, radiating with uplifting energy, seem to obey an inner peace and harmony.

• Details
• Contents