CLINTON - The Museum of Russian Icons is opening a new mini-exhibit, “From the Vault: Icons of Ethiopia,” on Saturday, May 20. This exhibit features a mix of Ethiopian icons, silver hand crosses, and artifacts from the museum’s collection dating from the 19th and 20th century. Many of the icons were purchased from Ikon Gallery in Berlin, Germany, between 2011 and 2014, including a Mother of God fresco, from the late 18th century that had been removed from the wall and transferred to canvas. “This very rare icon is one of the great treasures of the museum’s collection,” noted Museum Curator Kent Russell.
Ethiopian iconography, which didn’t appear until the 16th century, is easily recognized by the stylized and graphically bold figures with large, almond-shaped eyes painted in bright and vivid colors. These icons could be found in monasteries, churches, and the homes of the wealthy.
A newly acquired “magic scroll” will also be on view in the exhibit. This traditional Ethiopian art form is based on ancient beliefs that illnesses and other crises were the work of demons. A cleric of the Ethiopian Church would create the scroll, customized to the height of the patron, and inscribed with healing prayers and stories of saints and angels triumphing over Satan. They were written in Ge’ez, the liturgical language of Ethiopia. The scrolls were believed to have protective and healing powers, and were always carried by the owner.
"The practice of creating and using magic scrolls continues today, despite attempts by church officials to eliminate what they see as a superstitious tradition,” Russell said.
Next up in the main first floor gallery is “Fantastic Beasts in Iconography,” a family-oriented exhibit which will explore natural and unnatural creatures in icons and their symbolic meanings. The exhibition opens on June 3 with a special Family Day featuring animal-themed games, stories, crafts, snacks and face painting. Read more here
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