Deesis Hagia Sophia is a Byzantine mosaic icon located in the apse of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey. The icon depicts the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ enthroned, flanked by John the Baptist and the Archangel Gabriel. The Deesis mosaic is one of the most iconic and important works of art in the Hagia Sophia, and is considered to be a masterpiece of Byzantine art.
History
The Deesis mosaic was commissioned by Emperor Alexios III Angelos in 1297. It is believed to have been created by the Greek artist and mosaicist Theophanes the Greek, who is credited with creating many of the mosaics in the Hagia Sophia. The mosaic was originally located in the central apse of the Hagia Sophia, where it remained until the 15th century. It was moved to its current location in the south apse in the 16th century.
Description
The Deesis mosaic is composed of thousands of tiny glass and stone tiles, known as tesserae. The figures of Mary and Jesus are located in the center of the composition, with Mary seated on a throne and Jesus standing beside her. They are flanked by John the Baptist and the Archangel Gabriel, both of whom are depicted in a kneeling posture. The figures are all facing forward, as if looking out at the viewer.
Mary
Mary is depicted wearing a blue robe and a red cloak, with a halo of light surrounding her head. She is holding a scroll in her left hand, which symbolizes the Word of God. Her right hand is raised in a gesture of supplication.
Jesus
Jesus is shown wearing a red robe and a blue cloak, with a halo of light surrounding his head. He is holding a book in his left hand, which symbolizes the Gospel. His right hand is raised in a gesture of blessing.
John the Baptist
John the Baptist is depicted wearing a yellow robe and a blue cloak, with a halo of light surrounding his head. He is holding a cross in his left hand, which symbolizes the sacrifice of Jesus. His right hand is raised in a gesture of greeting.
The Archangel Gabriel
The Archangel Gabriel is depicted wearing a green robe and a blue cloak, with a halo of light surrounding his head. He is holding a staff in his left hand, which symbolizes his power as a messenger of God. His right hand is raised in a gesture of proclamation.
Symbolism
The Deesis mosaic is a symbol of the divine presence of the Trinity in the Hagia Sophia. The three figures of Mary, Jesus, and John the Baptist represent the three persons of the Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The figure of the Archangel Gabriel represents the messenger of God, and his staff symbolizes his role as a messenger between Heaven and Earth. The mosaic also serves as a reminder of the divine protection offered by the Virgin Mary, and her intercession on behalf of humanity.
Significance
The Deesis mosaic is a powerful symbol of faith and devotion, and it is an important part of the history and culture of the Hagia Sophia. It is one of the most iconic works of art in the Hagia Sophia, and it is a reminder of the power and beauty of Byzantine art. The mosaic has been admired and studied for centuries, and it continues to inspire awe and reverence in all who behold it.