Sacred Art (incomplete) Flashcards
The Pieta, Tree of Life Mosaic, The Creation of Adam
What is the purpose of sacred art?
To show truth and beauty which glorifies and emphasises the transcendent mystery of God
It leads individuals to prayer, faith and adoration of God their creator and redeemer
To aid worship
To be an expression of thanksgiving to God
Quote the CCC on its stance on the use of Sacred Art
Bishops should see to the promotion of sacred art, old and new, in all its forms
What is the purpose of symbolism in sacred art?
To remind viewers of a particular belief
What do the Alpha and the Omega symbolise?
Jesus (and by extension God’s) eternality
Give a biblical quote (including book and chapter) for the origin of Alpha and Omega symbolism
Revelation 22 v 13
Jesus says “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End”
What are the Alpha and the Omega?
The first and last letters of the Greek alphabet used by Jesus in Revelation 22 to symbolise his (and by extension God’s) eternality
They are often used in sacred art and on church items such as the Paschal Candle to remind people of this theological truth
What is the ChiRho?
A monogram of the first two letters of the Greek word Christos, meaning, and thus also symbolising, Christ
What is the difference between a cross and a crucifix?
Both represent the cross where Jesus died
A cross is simply an empty crucifix (without a depiction of Jesus) which typically symbolises salvation and triumph over sin and death rather than emphasising Jesus’ sacrifice and suffering
Protestants more commonly use the cross as they may say it better displays the resurrection however Catholics typically use the crucifix to place more emphasis on God’s selfless love and mercy
What does the dove symbolise?
The Holy Spirit
Give two examples where a dove is seen in the Bible
Jesus’ baptism - Matthew 3:16
After the flood, one returns to Noah with an olive branch - Genesis 8:11
