Central Ethiopia Eastern and Southern Africa
Triptych Icon
Late 17th century
Tempera on linen, mounted on wood and bound with cord
67 × 74 cm (26.4 × 29.1 in)
SEE IT IN PERSON
● On view now — Gallery 204
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified July 2026
Discussion
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
Although Orthodox Christianity has been practiced in the highlands of Ethiopia since the 4th century, this elaborate triptych is rendered in the courtly First Gonderine style, which flourished during the reign of King Iyyasu I (1682–1706) and incorporated bold, richly decorated forms and figures. With its central panel featuring the Virgin Mary and child Jesus flanked by archangels Gabriel and Michael, this icon reflects the popularity of Marian worship within the Ethiopian liturgy.
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