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IMC 2009: Sessions

Session 515: Border Issues, III: Conflict andf Interpretation of the Natural World

Tuesday 14 July 2009, 09.00-10.30

Moderator/Chair:Richard Morris, Institute for Medieval Studies, University of Leeds / School of Music, Humanities & Media, University of Huddersfield
Paper 515-aThe Symbolical Background of the Medieval Rings from the Republic of Macedonia
(Language: English)
Orhideja Zorova, Institute for Art History & Archaeology, Faculty of Philosophy, Skopje
Index terms: Archaeology - Artefacts, Byzantine Studies, Daily Life
Abstract

Paper -a:
The repertoire of the medieval rings originating from Republic of Macedonia offers an abundance of forms and decorative motifs. Among the numerous ornamental and symbolical decorative solutions, we can detect several categories of motifs which can roughly be divided into: matrixes belonging to the numismatic series which circulated on the territory of Republic of Macedonia, motifs with numerical symbolism, monograms, religious and prophylactic inscriptions, zoomorphic and phytomorphic motifs.

The medieval society suffered numerous phobias. In search for a solution of his weakness, the medieval Christian reacted superstitiously. The medieval paradox noticeable in the relation Christianity - superstition, finds its expression in the representations which those people placed on their rings.