Byzantium: Faith and Power (1261-1557)

It is also important to note the essay written by Archbishop Damianos of Sinai, Pharan, and Riatho, Abbot of the Holy Greek Orthodox Monastery of Saint Catherine, Sinai, Egypt who on page 335 writes,"...holy icons are more than artful and historical objects. They are a vital entity and a vibrant presence in the liturgical life of the Church, which is the very context that sanctioned and fostered their creation, existence, and use from early Christian times." He goes on to say, "Indeed, by their captivating formal purity, transparency, and clarity, icons create what we may call a resonance or an uplifting in the spiritual sense. They are statements of faith ..."

Lastly, mention must be made of the conclusion of the catalogue and exhibition, which focuses on the influence of Late Byzantine icons on Northern Renaissance art. Many masterpieces are exhibited including Memling, van der Weyden, Jan Van Eyck and Gerard David. They are breathtaking, but perhaps too much icing. A preview of Ms. Evans's next exhibition?

There are many other important examples that Mr. Temple could have used. This sumptuous and amazing exhibition should not be missed. The one in 1997 drew nearly 500,000 visitors and this one should top that.

The catalogue, which accompanies this exhibition, is massive. It spans 680 pages and contains more than 800 color plates. The illustrations are beautifully reproduced. It contains important essays and descriptions of the objects by a renowned group of over 100 scholars. Please, please please - do yourself a favor and see this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition and purchase the accompanying catalogue, which will give you much pleasure. Ms. Evans is owed every civilized person's gratitude for her awe-inspiring effort.