this isn't medieval, but a student has just come in and asked me if i know
anything about russian icons which show a madonna with 3 arms
- 2 hold the child and the third is apparently freefloating - not attached
- and at about waist level
i haven't seen the image but the student says it is 19th century and he has
seen an earlier 18th century precedent - it definately sounds intriguing
his question is - what does it mean?
i suspect bad copying, but it might mean something more profound
any suggestions would be gratefully received
judith collard
Judith Collard [log in to unmask]
Art History and Theory, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand
ph. (03) 479 8334 Fax: (03) 479 8558
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