Vol.I - The Coptic Orthodox Church

82 Ancient Coptic Churches. [CH. m.
shown in section half-submerging the figure of our
Lord but ; the faces are well drawn and expressive.
The paintings of St. Michael and St. Menas, on the
same wall, are very poor. The other two subjects
face each other on opposite piers near the screen.
On the north side is the Coronation of the Virgin.
This picture is mounted in a frame which holds it six
inches clear of the wall ; before it is fixed a little
beam set with a row of prickets for candles. The
Virgin is a three-quarter length figure, robed in a
dark mantle that forms a hood over the head. In
front a dim red dress shows under the mantle, but
both are thickly covered with golden stars, or rather
star-like crosses. The child is held on the left arm,
the Virgin's fore-arm falling, and the hands crossing
at the wrist. A flying angel at each side above is
and six cherub-faces peer
holding a golden crown ;
dimly from the gold background round the head and
shoulders. The Virgin has a fixed look, perhaps
too apathetic to be called pensive. Still, the picture
is pleasing, and recalls Albert Durer's treatment of
the same subject. The Arabic title upon it runs as
follows :
'
Peace on Mary, the Mother of our Lord
Jesus.' It may be noticed that even Muslim writers,
when they have occasion to mention Christ or Mary,
'
add after the name, on whom be peace.' The other
painting represents one St. Kultah, apparently a
notable physician.
a wand pointing to
In his
a casket
right hand he holds
in his left hand the
;
lid of the casket is raised, and shows six little com-
partments for drugs. On the dexter side in mid air
is a fine gold cross ; on the sinister a long gold staff
or crozier. Many of the patriarchs
for their skill in medicine.
were renowned