In Ephesians 5:25-32 (cached) Paul sketches out a theology of the Church which sees the latter as Christ's bride and thus, on the basis of Genesis 2:24 (cached), as his own flesh. Images proceeding from this theology present Ecclesia as Christ's bride and queen (example), existent since the beginning of creation (example).
A less mystical tradition in the art juxtaposes a representation of Ecclesia with her predecessor, Synagoga, who is blind or blindfolded (example). When thus paired, Ecclesia is typically shown as at left, with a chalice (having been saved by the blood of Christ), a crown, and a processional cross.
In a Crucifixion image we see an elderly Synagoga being hustled out of the frame by one angel while another leads in the beautiful young Ecclesia.
In a portrait of St. Barnabas in Santa Maria sopra Minerva a female figure who could be Ecclesia points to the phrase magistra apostolorum in a book the saint is holding open. The phrase means "teacher of the apostles" and is sometimes applied to the Church.
At left, Ecclesia window, Marburg/Lahn, Germany
Another image:
Fifth-century door panelMenu