GOSPEL BINDING PLATE
Openwork chiselled, embossed silver-gilt, 19th Century
GOSPEL BINDING PLATE
Openwork chiselled, embossed silver-gilt, 19th Century
In a radiant openwork baroque frame, the Virgin, her foot crushing the serpent-demon, surrounded by clouds and the four evangelists’ symbols -Matthew’s man, Mark’s lion, Luke’s ox and John’s eagle. She holds out her right hand in acceptance, while her other hand holds the spindle for spinning. Above her head, on the left, the dove of the Holy Spirit refers to the angel of the Annunciation. Two letters in Armenian are on her chest, in a radiating circle: M A, Mother of God. These elements blend into the overall design of the dish, while the verse on her headband is more prominent. The angel’s words are to the Virgin’s right, and the Virgin’s response is on the opposite side.
“I am the Lord’s servant, let it be done to me according to your word”.
“My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour.”