Further
developments of the khachkar led to a point when, at the beginning of
the 11th century, the upper part of the khachkar began to be
separated, first through carving and then architecturally. The cornice
received a domelike volume and was crowned by a protruding fronton.
Study shows that in the process of the appearance of the cornice,
besides its technical role, the widespread popularization of the
perception of the cross as a common mediator also took on an important
role. The lower part of a cross with rosette, various characters
(including also the carvings of mortals) appeared in the role of the
bottom ring and the cornice - in the role of the celestial sphere. In
12-14th centuries the cornice emerges with vegetative-garden
iconography, representing what is anticipated by the mediation of the
cross. The second variant of the iconography consists of themes and
characters connected to salvation: The Annunciation, The Nativity, The
Crucifixion, the advent of the cross and Christ, Last Judgment, Deisus,
angels and various saints, funeral liturgy, etc. Beginning in the 15th
century, mortals asking “in person” for salvation of their souls from
Jesus Christ, are included in the themes of the cornice.
Further
developments of the khachkar led to a point when, at the beginning of
the 11th century, the upper part of the khachkar began to be
separated, first through carving and then architecturally. The cornice
received a domelike volume and was crowned by a protruding fronton.
Study shows that in the process of the appearance of the cornice,
besides its technical role, the widespread popularization of the
perception of the cross as a common mediator also took on an important
role. The lower part of a cross with rosette, various characters
(including also the carvings of mortals) appeared in the role of the
bottom ring and the cornice - in the role of the celestial sphere. In
12-14th centuries the cornice emerges with vegetative-garden
iconography, representing what is anticipated by the mediation of the
cross. The second variant of the iconography consists of themes and
characters connected to salvation: The Annunciation, The Nativity, The
Crucifixion, the advent of the cross and Christ, Last Judgment, Deisus,
angels and various saints, funeral liturgy, etc. Beginning in the 15th
century, mortals asking “in person” for salvation of their souls from
Jesus Christ, are included in the themes of the cornice.
