
In this post we will see what is iconoclasm and what its consequences at the artistic level.
Cover image: ÍconByzantine icon Mother of Perpetual Help, source: Wikimedia.
what is iconoclasm and the iconoclastic movement
The use of icons was very popular in the Christian world. However, beginning in the 6th century, certain factions rose within the Christian Church condemning the use of the iconographic representations and accusing it of being idolatry. These factions, called Iconoclasts, publicly destroyed several sacred representations, arguing that only the crucifix is worthy of veneration.
So what is iconoclasm and what was the iconoclastic movement? A religious and political movement of the Byzantine Empire against the veneration of icons, started in 730 by Emperor Leo III (717-741).
Thousands of masterpieces were destroyed. Among them, were the best examples of the apogee of Byzantine art – causing also a strong obstacle on creativity and artistic representations.
Unfortunately, we don’t have many copies of mosaics, frescoes, sculptures, paintings and illustrated books dating from before this movement
Situation that was only appeased in 787 by Empress Irene, who was in favour of iconolatry. (meaning: the worship of icons., in oxforddictionaries).
Finally, and after much debate over the issue, at the Council of Nicaea in 787 AD, the use of icons and related representations was approved, as an integral part of the Christian tradition.
To better understand what is iconoclasm and the iconoclastic movement, let us see the importance of the icons in the Christian religion.