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The Heavenly World of Saints In Medieval and Renaissance painting the presence of a halo signifies a saint In Western Art the images of saints are numerous and important. Some of the greatest artists in history have been inspired by religious devotion to create divine images of such religious beauty and fervor that they hold power even today. Understanding these sacred reminders of the spiritual world and comprehending their symbolic meanings is essential in understanding the difference between an icon and idolatry. Saints fall into four distinct categories; evangelists, apostles, confessors and martyrs. Martyrs are the most divine and sacred because they have given their blood for Christ. Martyrs in the Christian faith did not kill innocent people thinking they would be frolicking around with virgins and enjoying carnal pleasures in heaven. Early Christian martyrs were burned alive, left in the forests to be eaten by wild animals, cooked in boiling oil, crucified and subjected to a plentitude of other vile tortures. The heathens in power despised the Christians because they would not renounce their faith. The one way for a Christian to avoid being horribly tortured was to denounce his faith. They frustrated their persecutors by willingly throwing themselves into roaring fires and launching themselves into the jaws of lions in the arena. Saintly Quotations
We are like children, who stand in need of masters to enlighten us
and direct us; and God has provided for this, Since God often sends us inspirations by means of His angels, we should frequently return our aspirations to him by means of the same messengers. ~ St. Francis De Sales
But if these beings guard you, they do so because they have been
summoned by your prayers.
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Require more facts and information about Byzantine painting? Poke around every nook and cranny of the known universe for information this subject. Search Here © HistoryofPainters.com If you like this page and wish to share it, you are welcome to link to it, with our thanks. If you feel you have worthwhile information you would like to contribute we would love to hear from you. We collect essential biographical information and artist quotes from folks all over the globe and appreciate your participation. When submitting please, if possible, site the source and provide English translation. Email to millardmulch@gmail.com |
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