Representations of Christ’s parables in Serbian medieval churches: The case of Dečani

Abstract

The article examines the six parables included in the painted decoration of the Monastery of Dečani. The soteriological and eschatological content of the four parables depicted in the parecclesion of Saint Nicholas leads to the conclusion that it was most likely used for memorial services, however its use cannot be specified. The choice of these particular allegorical stories is due to their liturgical importance in the Sabaitic Typikon, which was adopted by the Serbian Church since the early fourteenth century. During this period parables in general are beginning to be included in the iconographic program of Serbian, for the most part, churches.

Keywords

• Dečani
• iconography
• parables
• the Good Samaritan
• the Lost Sheep
• the Pharisee and Publican
• the Rich Man and Lazarus
• the Royal Wedding
• the Wise and Foolish Virgins