Drawing by George H. Forsyth, ornated capital

Title

Drawing by George H. Forsyth, ornated capital

Description

This detailed drawing by George H. Forsyth depicts a scaled image of the second capital from the west in the north aisle of the basilica at the Monastery of St. Catherine, Mount Sinai. Part of the Ilene H. Forsyth collection and preserved in a scan by the University of Michigan, the drawing showcases Forsyth's precise documentation of architectural details.
The capital is ornately decorated, featuring a central cross with flanking Alpha (Α) and Omega (Ω) symbols, signifying Christ’s eternal nature as described in Christian theology. Surrounding these are intricate motifs of grapevines and leaves, reflecting Byzantine artistic conventions where vegetal and symbolic imagery are often intertwined. The detailed inscriptions "PLASTER" at the top of the capital indicate areas where plaster was applied, possibly as part of restoration or conservation efforts.
Forsyth’s meticulous attention to proportions and measurements is evident, as the image includes a grid and numerical markings for accurate scaling. The ornate carvings, along with the technical precision of the drawing, provide valuable insight into the craftsmanship and symbolic intent of the basilica's original builders and decorators. This representation highlights Forsyth's scholarly rigor in capturing and preserving the architectural heritage of this significant Byzantine monument. (Image source: Ilene H. Forsyth and Elizabeth Sears, fig. 14, p. 136)

https://archive.org/details/DOP70_05_Forsyth_and_Sears