The Apse Mosaic at San Clemente

12th century
Mosaic
Church of San Clemente, Rome

Detail: The Tree of Life, the stags drinking from the streams that flow from the Cross, and the Lamb of God.

As usual, the number of streams is four, reflecting the four rivers in the Garden of Eden.  The central lamb has a cruciform halo, symbolizing Christ.  Twelve sheep face the Lamb, symbolizing the 12 apostles and 12 tribes of Israel.

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Photographed at the site by Richard Stracke