The Amhara Ethiopian church’s strong link to Eastern Orthodox Christianity can be seen in the use of icons. One central panel of this icon shows the Virgin and Child flanked by the archangels Gabriel and Michael. The left panel depicts Saint George slaying the dragon, above, and Takla Haymonat and Ewostatewas, two local saints, below. On the right panel, the Resurrection is represented as Christ releasing Adam and Eve from Limbo. The opposite central panel portrays Christ wearing a crown of thorns and being mocked before Pontius Pilate. Below are the husband and wife who commissioned the icon. The upper part of the panel on the right shows a local saint, Abo, with a dove and pairs of lions and leopards. The lower part depicts the entombment of Christ.

A painted icon, also known as a double triptych, is a significant and visually striking representation in the Amhara Ethiopian church, offering a glimpse into the strong connection between the church and Eastern Orthodox Christianity. This elaborate artwork consists of two hinged panels, each divided into three sections, and is adorned with intricate details and symbolic imagery.

The icon’s central panel takes center stage, depicting the Virgin and Child with the archangels Gabriel and Michael, emphasizing the reverence for the divine within the Ethiopian Orthodox tradition. Flanking this central scene are two side panels, with the left panel showcasing Saint George valiantly slaying the dragon, a powerful visual metaphor often associated with the triumph of good over evil. Additionally, the left panel features depictions of local saints Takla Haymonat and Ewostatewas, bridging the spiritual connection between the church and the community it serves.

Moving to the right panel, the theme of the Resurrection unfolds, portraying Christ freeing Adam and Eve from Limbo, symbolizing redemption and the promise of life after death. Contrasting this uplifting imagery, the opposite central panel illustrates a poignant scene of Christ wearing a crown of thorns and being mocked before Pontius Pilate, encapsulating the sacrificial narrative central to Christian theology. Below this depiction, the figures of the patrons who commissioned the icon are portrayed, underscoring their devout patronage and contribution to the church’s spiritual tapestry.

As the narrative unfolds further, the upper portion of the right panel showcases Abo, a local saint, accompanied by a dove and pairs of lions and leopards, intricately weaving together elements of nature and spirituality. Meanwhile, the lower part of the panel captures the profound moment of the entombment of Christ, commemorating his ultimate sacrifice and the subsequent hope found in his resurrection.

The painted icon, or double triptych, thus serves as a focal point within the Amhara Ethiopian church, encapsulating profound religious symbolism, local traditions, and the collective devotion of the community. Its intricate details and profound narratives not only enrich the visual landscape of the church but also serve as a testament to the enduring heritage of Eastern Orthodox Christianity in the region.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the site!