The geographic and temporal limits of pseudo-Kufic decoration


Published: Jan 1, 2013
Keywords:
10th-12th century pseudo-Kufic Byzantine architecture in Greece architectural decoration
Χαράλαμπος ΜΠΟΥΡΑΣ
Abstract

The use of pseudo-Kufic inscriptions as architectural decoration for walls, in the form of ceramic features, as well as for marble architectural members is limited to Greece (Central Greece, the Peloponnese and Euboia) from the mid 10th century until the end of the 12th century. It is ascertained that the starting point for this form of decoration is the monastery of Hosios Loukas and the church of the Virgin in particular. Three cases of pseudo-Kufic decoration are noted that are directly related to the capital (glazed tiles from Constantinopolitan workshops and an inscribed architectural member from Chios). The fact that the church of the Virgin of Hosios Loukas has numerous Constantinopolitan architectural elements makes it reasonable to suggest that its pseudo-Kufic decoration originated also in Constantinople.

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