Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

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This mosaic, one of two in the South Gallery of the Hagia Sophia, depicts Christ enthroned between the Empress Zoe (1028-1050) and her third husband Constantine IX Monomachus (1042-1055).

Overall, this mosaic is characterized by an austere composition and dark hue. Constantine IX offers Christ an apokombion (purse with gold coins weighing about 3 kgs) and Zoe presents Christ with a scroll inscribed with a list of her donations to the church.

In accordance with older practices, the principal figure of the composition (Christ) is depicted on a larger scale, which also stresses his divinity.

Experts have determined that the head and name of the emperor had been changed, probably replacing a previous version. The mosaic was probably commissioned by Emperor Romanus II Argyrus (1028-1034), Zoe's first husband, who had defrayed the cost of repairs to the church of Hagia Sophia.

Some changes were also made to the portrait of the Empress, but Christ's gaze seems directed towards Zoe to suggest compassion for the Augusta.

Photo in the public domain. See the next photo for a detailed view of Christ.