Deesis Collection

Deesis Mosaic. 13th c. TURKEY. Istanbul. Hagia Sophia (Basilica of St. Sophia). Detail of Christ Pantocrator. Work located at the southern side of the higher gallery. Late Byzantine art. Mosaic

The 13th century Deesis mosaic in the South Gallery of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey, depicting Jesus Christ
HAGIA SOPHIA: MOSAIC. The 13th century Deesis mosaic in the South Gallery of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey, depicting Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary and John the Baptist

Deesis with St. Nicholas and an unknown saint, unknown date. Creator: Unknown
Deesis with St. Nicholas and an unknown saint, unknown date

Deesis: Christ among the Virgin, Saint John, Saint Benedict, Saint Guido, refectory (fresco)
3707553 Deesis: Christ among the Virgin, Saint John, Saint Benedict, Saint Guido, refectory (fresco) by Maestro di Tolentino (fl.14th century) (attr.to); Abbazia di Pomposa & Museo Pomposiano

Triptych depicting Christ Enthroned with the Virgin, St. John the Baptist and other saints (ivory) (b / w photo)
ALI213280 Triptych depicting Christ Enthroned with the Virgin, St. John the Baptist and other saints (ivory) (b/w photo) (see 213281) by Byzantine, (10th century); Vatican Museums and Galleries

Fragment of a Processional Cross, c. 1050 (silver gilt, niello)
499776 Fragment of a Processional Cross, c.1050 (silver gilt, niello) by Byzantine, (11th Century); 32.3x44.8x5.7 cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH

Diadem with the Deesis, 12th century. Artist: Anonymous
Diadem with the Deesis, 12th century. Found in the collection of the State Russian Museum, St. Petersburg

The Descent into Hell with Deesis and Selected Saints, End of 14th cen Artist: Russian icon
The Descent into Hell with Deesis and Selected Saints, End of 14th cen.. Found in the collection of the State Russian Museum, St. Petersburg

Deesis with Praying Novgorodians, ca 1467-1471. Artist: Russian icon
Deesis with Praying Novgorodians, ca 1467-1471. Found in the collection of the State Open-air Museum of History and Architecture Novgorodian Kremlin, Novgorod

The Deesis. Detail. Jesus Christ in Majesty as if to bless. 13th century. Mosaic. Hagia Sophia. Istanbul. Turkey

Deesis Saint Nicholas unknown saint icon
Deesis with Saint Nicholas and an unknown saint, icon, Height, 94 cm (37 inches), Width, 104 cm (40.9 inches)

Steel, gold and silver helmet with Deesis, Byzantine, 13th century. Artist: Byzantine Master
Steel, gold and silver helmet with Deesis, Byzantine, 13th century. In Byzantine and later Eastern Orthodox art, the Deesis, is a representation of Christ in Majesty or Christ Pantocrator: enthroned

Deesis, 17th century. Artist: Russian icon
Deesis, 17th century. From a private collection

The Apostle Paul (tempera on wood)
BAL1630128 The Apostle Paul (tempera on wood) by Theophanes the Greek, (fl.1378-1405/15); 210x117 cm; Cathedral of the Annunciation, The Kremlin, Moscow, Russia; (add.info.: In Byzantine art)

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The Deesis mosaic, dating back to the 13th century in Turkey's Istanbul, is a breathtaking masterpiece found within the walls of Hagia Sophia. This iconic artwork portrays Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and John the Baptist in an awe-inspiring display of religious devotion. Captured through a photograph from the 20th century, this mosaic showcases intricate details that have stood the test of time. The South Gallery of Hagia Sophia serves as a sanctuary for this remarkable piece, inviting visitors to witness its beauty firsthand. As we delve deeper into this artistic marvel, we encounter various depictions of Christ among different saints. In one instance, he stands majestically as if bestowing his blessings upon all who gaze upon him. Another representation shows Christ surrounded by the Virgin Mary and Saint John amidst other revered figures like Saint Benedict and Saint Guido. Not limited to mosaics alone they can also be witnessed in frescoes adorning refectories. These vibrant paintings bring forth a sense of spirituality and reverence that resonates with those who come across them. Beyond Hagia Sophia's walls lies another depiction of Christ enthroned with the Virgin Mary and St. John on an ivory triptych. This intricately carved piece captures their divine presence with utmost delicacy. In addition to these grand artworks are smaller fragments that hold immense historical significance. A processional cross crafted around 1050 using silver gilt and niello offers us a glimpse into ancient craftsmanship while showcasing Christ's enduring influence throughout centuries, and is impossible not to be captivated by these representations when visiting Hagia Sophia or exploring Turkish history further. The Deesis mosaic stands tall as a testament to human creativity intertwined with faith—a timeless reminder of our collective spiritual journey.