Subtle Bodies: Representing Angels in Byzantium (review)
Alfred Büchler
From the earliest centuries Christian art produced images of angels, but by fourth century theologians argued that their spiritual nature made impossible material representation in art. Not until period Iconoclasm was a theologically grounded justification angelic formulated. While iconography angels has been well reported, this is not so for intellectual underpinnings debate; and what Glenn Peers traces Subtle Bodies: Representing Angels Byzantium. Going beyond standard theological sources (quoting some familiar even to those reasonably acquainted with iconoclast-iconophile debates), draws on wide range texts embracing theology, polemics, hagiography, legends, poetry, narratives cults. Peers's text particularly valuable his account evidence leading [End Page 108] up iconoclasm; after iconophile triumph 843, remained subject discussion.
Catholic Historical Review