The center or focal point of the Orthodox altar screen (Iconostasis) is the Deisis. Deisis is Greek in origin meaning “prayer.” It is used to describe icons or grouping of icons which show Christ in the center flanked by Mary on His right and John the Forerunner (Baptist) on His left. The Deisis can be depicted on a single panel or multiple panels, expanding outward with a specifically ordained order. This example shows the right side of the Deisis depicting from left to right; John the Baptist, The Archangel Gabriel, and The Apostle Paul all turned inward towards Christ in an attitude of prayer. It is probably from an iconostasis in a small provincial chapel.
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