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Mary, John II Komnenos, Eirene

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Mary, John II Komnenos, Eirene
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Photo Comments

This mosaic panel is located on the east wall of the south balcony in the Hagia Sophia, in the section known as the "Royal Box," reserved for members of the imperial family.

At the center, Mary, dressed in blue, stands holding the Christ Child in her arms. Jesus raises His hand in blessing while holding a scroll in the other. To the left stands Emperor John II Komnenos (r. 1118–1143), and to the right is his Empress, Eirene (also known as Irene of Hungary). Their son, Alexios, is portrayed on the far right, positioned on the buttress.

The mosaic, dating to the 12th century, depicts the donations made by the Emperor and Empress to the Hagia Sophia. John holds a bag of money, while Eirene presents a document specifying how the funds were to be used.


Note: John II is often regarded as the greatest of the Komnenian Emperors.