Sensul with Images of Saints (Primary Title)
Unknown (Artist)
The accordion-fold format of this parchment with seventeen panels is called a sensul (chain of paintings). From left to right, the first six panels likely depict the twelve apostles. In the next three panels, two depictions of the Madonna and Child flank one showing a pair of archangels. The following three panels represent holy men and Old Testament figures, and the final five panels depict equestrian saints, each holding a spear with which to conquer enemies and devils.
A sensul can be hung above a bed at night, and the folded unit’s compact form makes for easy carrying in a pocket or pouch during the day. Like the double-sided diptychs displayed above, both types of folding icons serve as portable devotional images that are easy to keep close for the owner's protection.
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