Christianity: Images, Symbols, and Sacred Places
This gallery presents Christian images, objects, manuscripts, and architecture selected for study and comparison. Use the images to consider scripture, worship, theology, and diversity within Christianity.
These images are selected for study and comparison. Look closely at the source, rights note, caption, and category for each image before drawing conclusions.
Abdon and Sennen carrying the early Christian martyrs off for burial

Abdon and Sennen carrying the early Christian martyrs off for burial is a candidate image from The Metropolitan Museum of Art found with the curated search term ‘early Christian’. It is relevant to Christianity because it fits the page category: Early Christian art, cross/crucifixion, Madonna and Child, icon, church architecture, manuscript, or liturgical object. It would help World Religions students connect a specific object, site, or practice with the tradition.
The Adoration of the Magi

This image shows The Adoration of the Magi. It connects to Christianity through madonna and child or icon. Students can use it to compare how objects, texts, places, and practices communicate religious ideas.
Plaque with an Eros

This image shows Plaque with an Eros. It connects to Christianity through christ / crucifixion. Students can use it to compare how objects, texts, places, and practices communicate religious ideas.
Adoration of the Magi

This image shows Adoration of the Magi. It connects to Christianity through madonna and child or icon. Students can use it to compare how objects, texts, places, and practices communicate religious ideas.
Questions for Looking Closely
- What specific details in the image connect it to this tradition?
- What source information helps you interpret the image responsibly?
- How does this image complicate a simple or stereotyped understanding of the tradition?
- What comparison could you make with another image on this page?
