Publication details
Sicut in caelo et in terra. Osservazioni sulla cathedra vacua della basilica sistina di Santa Maria Maggiore a Roma
| Title in English | Sicut in caelo et in terra. Observations on the empty cathedra of the Sixtine Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome |
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| Authors | |
| Year of publication | 2012 |
| Type | Article in Periodical |
| Magazine / Source | Iconographica |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Field | Art, architecture, cultural heritage |
| Keywords | empty chair; art and liturgy; Episcopal Propaganda |
| Description | The image of the empty throne displayed on the triumphal arch of the Sixtine Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome is especially imbued with meaning – in contrast with the nearby scenes. In the Roman world it worked as a rather usual hint at Imperial and even more at divine power. In the Christian context it could be regarded as a substitutive symbol of Christ. Its visual parallelism with the Bishop’s throne, by then located under the mosaic, could be enough to explain its inclusion in the program. Yet, this compositional device provides no clues to understand the choice of an empty throne, instead of the representation of a seating Christ. The analysis of iconographic, textual and archeological evidence enables us to formulate the hypothesis that the association of the divine and the Episcopal throne may be connected with old liturgical usages being witnessed in Syria – according to which a book and a cross could be exposed on the Episcopal throne when the Bishop was not present. In this way the throne happened to be provided with almost divine qualities. The throne in Santa Maria Maggiore can therefore be interpreted as a hint at an ancient rite celebrating the divine origins of Episcopal power. |