The Deësis



This subject is very popular in Eastern iconography. Mary and John the Baptist stand respectively left and right of Christ, usually in postures of supplication. (The word "deësis" is Greek for "supplication." It appears often in the New Testament.) 

The subject is less common in the West. Some examples combine the Deësis with the Last Judgment and add angels who present Christ reminders of his Passion. Others exhibit a variety of adaptations.

Deëses with the Last Judgment and reminders of the Passion:

• French ivory, 13th century
  
• Church of St. Nicholas, Burgos, Last Judgement Panel
• A Capital in the Sarmental Doorway, Burgos Cathedral
• North Tympanum, Burgos Cathedral

Other Western examples:

• Hubert and Jan van Eyck
• Giulio Pippi

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