14/11/2006
The lecterns
The lecterns also exist in the churches for the liturgical needs. In order that these may better serve the chanters, they have also taken various shapes; consequently we have observed a variety in their structure, technique and decoration.
On some occasions they carry a four sided or six sided or an eight sided trucks with the corresponding feet and relief, that is either a painted or an inlaid decorative. We observe that there are opening for the holding of the liturgical books mainly on the side in front of the chanters, but on the others as well.
The craftsmen ensured, in accordance with the requirement of the client, to construct especially the upper lectern, on same occasions they were level and on other occasions they had inclined surface to accept the liturgical books. We observe in some cases even three inclined open corners to hold more open books. In most cases, the lecterns with the inclined surfaces have been supported on axis for rotation, to assist the chanters.
Especially with the lecterns, we must mention that their decoration did not always follow that in the other church furniture. On the contrary we may state that especially from the 17th century and until the 18th century, there prevailed the lecterns with inset decoration technique, of Islamic influence, as for example at the church of Aghios Nikolaos at Tsepelovo, as well as elsewhere. They relate to liturgical furniture of a small dimension, which radiate magnificence and luxury.
From the middle of the 18th century onwards they have usually followed, in terms of the decoration, the other furniture of the church and mainly that on the iconostases.
We have however observed in recent years, in relation to the lecterns, a return in the construction of lecterns with the inset technique, as for example at the Monastery of Aghios Nikolaos at Tzora.
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