0801 Ethiopian Diptych

Ethiopia.
19th cent. 24.5x 23 cms. in a glass case.

In iconography Ethiopian icons are unique. The subjects are presented in an almost cartoon style. The colours of the older ones created to fulfil personal needs are subdued because, being personal, the colours were dependant on whatever could be extracted from the plants that were readily available.  By contrast, the ones found  in churches and the modern ones are vibrant with colour.

The diptych is icon is believed to date from the 19th cent. It is painted on two papyrus boards that have been hardened by animal glue rather which also acts as the surface on which the paint is applied. The two boards are joined by string hinges.

The inset images themselves represent the Crucifixion and The Virgin and  the Christ child. The figures are painted in a traditional style. Their eyes are large to be able better to see the glories of God, The lips are closed as a guard against unkind speech. The ears are concealed to as a protection against the wicked words of temptation.

For protection, the diptych has been placed within an oak framed, glass fronted box. The dimensions above include the frame. The diptych itself measures approximately 15×13.5 cms when open.