Hagia Sophia - Imperial Entrance Mosaic of Christ

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This mosaic tops the imperial entrance to the Hagia Sophia's interior. It depicts Christ Pantocrator holding a book with the Greek inscription "Peace be with you. I am the Light of the World."

Christ is surrounded by roundels portraying the Virgin Mary and the angel Gabriel (who also feature in the apse mosaics). At Christ's feet is a bearded emperor, said to represent Leo VI asking for forgiveness for his four marriages.

The mosaic dates to between 886 and 912 AD.

See the previous photo for a view of the whole mosaic and this photo for a view of the mosaic in context.

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