Deeses

/ˈdiːzɪz/ noun

Definition

Plural of deesis; plural of a Byzantine religious image typically showing Christ or the Virgin Mary in a position of intercession.

Etymology

From Greek deesis meaning 'prayer' or 'supplication.' The term refers to a specific type of religious artwork from the Byzantine Empire depicting saints in prayer.

Kelly Says

Medieval Byzantine artists created stunning deesis mosaics in churches where holy figures literally appear to be pleading on behalf of human souls—the frozen moment of divine intercession.

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