Living water : images, symbols, and settings of early Christian baptism / / by Robin M. Jensen.

• Superior document: Supplements to Vigiliae Christianae, v. 105
• Author: Jensen, Robin Margaret, 1952-
• Year of Publication: 2011
• Edition: 1st ed.
• Language: English
• Series: Supplements to Vigiliae Christianae ; v. 105.
• Physical Description: 1 online resource (332 p.)
• Notes: Description based upon print version of record.
• Other title: Preliminary Material /; Introduction /; Chapter One. Baptismal Iconography In Catacomb /; Chapter Two. Baptismal Iconography On Sacrophagus And Grave Beliefs /; Chapter Three. Baptismal Iconography In Ivory, Glass, And Mosaic /; Chapter Four. Aspects Of Baptismal Images In Light Of Early Liturgical Documents /; Chapter Five. The Design And Decoration Of Early Christian Baptisteries /; Chapter Six. Symbolism In Baptistery Design And Decor Introduction: Visual Symbols And Ritual Actions /; Bibliography /; Index /
• Bibliography: Includes bibliographical references (p. [283]-297) and index.
• ISBN: 1283119978; 9786613119971; 9004189084
• ISSN: 0920-623X
• Hierarchical level: Monograph
• Statement of Responsibility: by Robin M. Jensen.

This general survey of early Christian baptismal iconography and architecture integrates visual depictions and physical settings of baptism with textual evidence for its practice and purpose. An opening overview of pictorial art (paintings, relief sculpture, mosaics, and ivories) prompts questions about components of the actual ritual which are treated in the literary sources. The study’s second half considers selected baptismal structures, examining the symbolism, purpose, and possible meaning of their spatial design and decorative programs. In most instances the synthesis of documentary and material evidence is enriching and complementary. However, even when physical and textual data diverge, their discontinuity demonstrates the variability of ritual performance and the perennial distinction between ideal and actual practice..