Page 27 - Studia Universitatis Hereditati, vol 12(2) (2024)

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Figure 2: St. Nicholas Church in Ljuboten, South Façade Figure 3: St. Nicholas Church in Ljuboten, East Façade
(photo Jasmina S. Ćirić) Details (photo Jasmina S. Ćirić)

The church’s brickwork demonstrates a me- ded into the walls with a two-step ‘cutting’ ef-
thodical approach to decorative detailing. The fect. The outer arch aligns with the façade
façade features rhythmic layering of stone and plane, while the inner arch is recessed, creat-
brick, with stone layers comprising hewn ash- ing a visually engaging depth (Korać 2003, 113– Sensory Encounters: Decoding the Symbolism of St Nicholas Church in Ljuboten
lars and brick layers arranged in a consistent pat- 114). This layered arrangement simulates a pas-
tern. The emphasis on mortar layers also creates sage, guiding the eye and body into the church’s
a harmonious and geometric appearance, which sacred interior. Manipulation of depth in these
serves an aesthetic function and contributes to arches echoes the spiritual journey from the
worshippers’ sensory experience. The brickwork earthly to the Divine, emphasizing the senso-
on the southern façade, for example, features a ry dimension of medieval religious architecture
chessboard pattern and diagonally placed bricks, (fig. 3; Taft 1991, 33–34; Gerstel 1999; Ćirić 2016,
drawing the viewer’s eye in rhythmic, ordered di- 311).
rections (fig. 2). The west façade holds significant histori-
This pattern not only enhances the visual cal and artistic importance due to its original
complexity but also serves as a cognitive met- painted decoration including a ktetorial por-
aphor for Divine order and stability, inviting trait of Danica, the church’s patron. While this
a deeper, sensory engagement that reinforces portrait is no longer preserved, its existence was
spiritual reflection (Korać 2003, 113–118; Ćirić documented and researched in earlier studies
2024, 259). (Radujko 2008, 104). This portrait emphasized
Particularly noteworthy are decorative Danica’s role in the church’s construction and
arches on the eastern façade, which are embed- highlighted her devotion to the architectural