What caused the iconoclast controversy?
What caused the iconoclast controversy?
The Iconoclasts (those who rejected images) objected to icon veneration for several reasons, including the Old Testament prohibition against images in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:4) and the possibility of idolatry.
What was the purpose of iconoclasm?
Iconoclasm literally means “image breaking” and refers to a recurring historical impulse to break or destroy images for religious or political reasons. For example, in ancient Egypt, the carved visages of some pharaohs were obliterated by their successors; during the French Revolution, images of kings were defaced.
What caused the iconoclast period in Hagia Sophia?
In 726, there were many superstitions about the mosaics and icons of Hagia Sophia. People used to come and make a wish or even pray in front of the icons. So, an iconoclast period began with the effects of Muslim belief on the prohibition of image and icon worship.
What is the significance of the mosaic of Hagia Sophia?
Mosaics of Hagia Sophia. By the way, it is believed that the dome was originally decorated with a cross and then a mosaic of Christ the Pantocrator as in Fethiye Museum (Church Pammakaristos). Mary and the Christ image which is generally in the middle of other figures implies the presence of God is always among people.
How long did it take to restore Hagia Sophia?
In 1932, the arduous works began on restoration of the mosaics. In 1935, Hagia Sophia reopened as a museum. The project of the Institute continued about 18 years.
What damage did the iconoclasts do to the mosaics?
Leo III destroyed the pictures, mosaics and icons in the churches. Iconoclasts means the image breakers. It was may be the first big harm to the mosaics. They destroyed the mosaics except the Seraphim. Then Constantine V continued to destruct many images and icons of all over the churches in the city.
