deesis Definition
a representation in art of the Virgin Mary, St. John the Baptist, and sometimes other saints, shown in attitudes of prayer, with Christ as judge represented above or in front of them.
Using deesis: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "deesis" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The deesis mosaic in Hagia Sophia depicts the Virgin Mary and John the Baptist praying for humanity.
Example
The deesis is a common subject in Byzantine art.
Phrases with deesis
a monumental mosaic in the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey, depicting the Virgin Mary and John the Baptist pleading with Christ for mercy on behalf of humankind
Example
The Great Deesis is one of the most famous mosaics in the world.
Example
The Deesis fresco in the Church of St. Panteleimon in Nerezi, North Macedonia, is a well-known example of Byzantine art.
Example
The Deesis icon is a popular devotional image in Eastern Christianity.
Origins of deesis
from Greek 'deēsis', meaning 'prayer'
Summary: deesis in Brief
The term 'deesis' [dih-ee-sis] refers to a representation in art of the Virgin Mary, St. John the Baptist, and sometimes other saints, shown in attitudes of prayer, with Christ as judge represented above or in front of them. It is a common subject in Byzantine art, often depicted in mosaics, frescoes, and icons.
