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Document Details : Title: Wearing the Bible Subtitle: An Early Christian Tunic with New Testament Scenes Author(s): MARINIS, Vasileios Journal: Journal of Coptic Studies Volume: 9 Date: 2007 Pages: 95-109 DOI: 10.2143/JCS.9.0.2022847 Abstract : This article examines the most complete example of an early Christian tunic decorated with New Testament scenes. The iconography includes, among others, the Adoration of the Magi, Nativity, Baptism, Christ and the Samaritan Woman, along with single figures of saints. Some of the scenes are repeated twice or even three times. The style of the compositions is flat and schematic and only the essential elements are included. Despite the particularities, the iconography is comparable to the one found in other media of the same period, such as jewelry, ivories, and monumental painting. Based on parallels drawn from similar textiles and textual evidence the author argues that the tunic had a distinctive apotropaic and prophylactic character aimed to protect the wearer. |
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