Art History Blog

Theology: A specific form or system of this study [the study of religious doctrines and matters of divinity], as expounded by a particular religion or denomination.

This dome is the most recognizable image of the Hosios Loukas Monastery.

It shows Christ Pantokrator in the center judging all those who dwell below him.

Theologically: the dome shows that Christ is high in the heavens and will judge the living and the dead.

This squinch is located to the left of the dome. Also on the left was the scene of the Annunciation, but this mosaic was lost to time.

Theologically: the mosaic tells the story of Christ's baptism as He accepts His role as Messiah.

This squinch is in the upper right corner of the dome. It shows the story of Mary presenting Jesus in the temple.

Theologically: the squinch shows the beginning of Christ's journey to become the word of God.

This squinch is located to the lower right of the dome and depicts the birth of Jesus.

Theologically: the mosaic tells the story of the birth of Christ. This is the second most important story behind His crucifixion.

The narthex is the first portion of the building as you walk through. It is meant to give you space to prepare for mass and/or for processing through the church for mass.

The narthex of Hosios Loukas has four important mosaics.

This mosaic is found in the narthex of the monastery, directly to the left of Jesus Pantokrator.

Theologically: the mosaic shows the death of Christ, one of the most important stories to Christianity.

This mosaic is directly above the door from the narthex to the church. It shows Christ holding and pointing to the gospels.

Theologically: the mosaic shows that Jesus is the word of God. If you follow Jesus's teachings, then you are following God's will.