A lecture given by Helen Moussa, a researcher attached to the Coptic Museum in Canada, addressed the subject of “Women in the life of Christ”. Dr Moussa talked of the museum, and pointed out that it has among its collection six original paintings of Biblical scenes by the late Egyptian artist Marguerite Nakhla, described by Dr Moussa as one of the most distinguished 20th century artists.
Closer to hand
Many of Nakhla’s finest works are closer to hand, among them 12 icons that hang today in St Mary’s Church in Zamalek, Cairo. Dr Moussa briefed her audience on the history of the church and its other beautiful icons by the great artist Ragheb Ayad. Nakhla’s 12 icons are derived from the Holy Bible and centre on the theme of women in the life of Christ. Predictably, several depict the Holy Virgin: one is of St Mary as a child being presented to the temple in fulfilment of her parents’ vow that their first child would be dedicated to the Lord. Another shows the Annunciation, and a third depicts Mary’s visit to Elizabeth who was then pregnant with the child who was later to become St John the Baptist. Elizabeth’s rejoicing is almost tangible as she says: “Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. And whence is this to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Luke 1: 42, 43). There is also an icon for the wedding at Cana in Galilee where St Mary tells her son: “They have no wine.” (John 2: 3), and Jesus turns the water into wine. Other icons show Jesus at the well conversing with the Samaritan woman; Jesus waking the grieving widow’s son from the dead as his coffin is carried by the mourners; and the healing of the woman with the issue of blood who followed Christ amid the masses and touched His garment.
Nakhla’s icons also include one depicting the woman who anointed Christ before his Crucifixion; St Mary at the foot of the Cross; and Christ appearing to the women following His Resurrection.
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