Paper short abstract:

The paper will explore the theological symbolism and devotional practices connected with the use of liturgical covering for icons, considering examples from Byzantium and medieval Italy.

Paper long abstract:

In medieval Byzantium the reverence towards icons could find material expression also in the partial or total covering of sacred images with revetments and hangings of various kind, such as gold or silver cladding and precious textiles. Literary and material sources from the 11th-13th centuries provide valuable information about the devotional practices connected with these liturgical devices. Some famous Constantinopolitan icons, which were regarded as particularly ancient and venerable and were believed to act as foci of miraculous power, appear to have been privileged recipients of such liturgical adjuncts, often offered by wealthy members of the aristocratic group. Interestingly, similar practices are attested in relation to medieval icons (probably coming from the East or perceived as such) venerated in some Italian cities, notably in Pisa. The present paper aims at reconstructing the religious meaning, liturgical function and social significance of objects which were meant to adorn sacred images but also to conceal them from the direct gaze of the faithful, and at tracing the possible dissemination of related devotional habits across the medieval Mediterranean.