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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Rectangular goatskin with painting at centre and goat hair border. The painting is bordered in red with a white design. The scene is of St. George sitting on a horse. He is using a long spear to kill a green and white dragon. There is blue sky, a yellow-green field and a woman grasping a tree above the dragon. There is also amharic writing on both sides of St. George and on the lower left.

History Of Use

Traditional painting has roots in the 8th century. Today painting is mainly for tourist sale, although most homes have a depiction of a religious legend. Generally these paintings are in bright colours in cartoon style with a few words of explanation. Before canvas and paper were common, goatskin and wood were used. Also found in churches.

Cultural Context

religion; decorative

Iconographic Meaning

The spear symbolizes strength of the good destroying evil (dragon). The halo indicates holiness.

Item History

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