Temple Shield of The Panagias Theotokou Church (Church of Our Lady)

The Temple shield of the church of Panagia Theotokou in Kakopetria was constructed in the first half of the 17th century. It is 76x39 cm in size.

At the highest point of the shield is depicted a star shaped patterned sky and God’s hand appears to bless the donor. The donors are depicted on a semi-shielded armor, which at a later stage was placed over the beautiful gate. The surface of the armor is covered with colourful vegetable jewelry. Among the donors there is a dedicatory inscription, which says: ‘ΔΕΗΣΙΣ ΤΟΥ ΔΟΥΛΟΥ ΤΟΥ ΘΕΟΥ ΜΙΧΑΗΛ ΚΑΙ ΤΗΣ ΣΥΜΒΙΟΥ ΑΥΤΟΥ ΧΡΙΣΤΙΝΑΣ’ (DEUSIS OF THE GOSPEL OF GOD MICHAEL AND HIS PARTNER CHRISTINA).

Theophylactos painted the shield. The church of Panagia Theotokou is located at the entrance of Kakopetria. It was built in 1514 and seems to be a Byzantine chapel. From the frescoes of the church dating back to the first half of the 16th century, some are well-preserved. On the northern wall are the frescoes: The Lord on his way to Calvary, the Resurrection, the Pentecost, the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, St. Mary of Egypt, and St. Cosmas. On the eastern wall are the frescoes: Ascension, the Prophet David, the wise Solomon, the Prophet Isaiah, and others.

Location

Churches

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