The depiction of sacred objects of distributing the holy blood in coptic mural painting

Abstract EN

According to Coptic tradition; The Eucharist is one of the seven sacraments of the Coptic Church.

Although all sacraments have their own grace, the Eucharist enjoys the most elevated grace of them all.

Bread and Wine become the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ.

Prophecies of the Christ's salvation appeared in many verses in both Old and New Testament and as result; Eucharistic scenes were depicted in early Coptic mural paintings to express and confirm the upcoming salvation.

This paper aims to study, analyze and trace the depiction of three main objects strongly incorporated in celebrating and demonstrating the holy blood among congregations namely Chalice; Spoon and Napkin in integrate Eucharistic mural painting in Coptic monasteries.

Eucharistic scenes were usually depicted in sanctuary walls as figures participate in the actual event taking place on the altar.

Chalice and spoon were early main instrument; spoons and napkins were incorporated in a later date and gradually appeared in New Testament scenes.