File:Arches and Capitals with Decorative Reliefs (3255583031).jpg

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I wish I knew the derivation of the interesting crescent-shaped designs on the corners of the capitals. It's difficult to believe they're there because someone just thought they looked pretty, or because the masons couldn't execute a crisp 90-degree corner. The designs must be charged with symbolism to occupy precious and prominent space in a sacred precinct.

I could speculate and suggest they harken back to the moon imagery found in pre-Christian Ethiopian art. Or, perhaps they relate to the Holy Trinity in some way. At the risk of creating a terrific scandal, may I suggest these are fertility symbols? What do you think?

13th century rock-hewn Church of Debre Sina, Lalibela, Ethiopia.
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Arches and Capitals with Decorative Reliefs

Author A. Davey from Where I Live Now: Pacific Northwest

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This image, originally posted to Flickr, was reviewed on 5 October 2012 by the administrator or reviewer File Upload Bot (Magnus Manske), who confirmed that it was available on Flickr under the stated license on that date.

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current17:49, 5 October 2012Thumbnail for version as of 17:49, 5 October 20122,230 × 1,783 (1.25 MB)File Upload Bot (Magnus Manske) (talk | contribs)Transferred from Flickr by User:Elitre

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