Image and Chalcedonian Eucharistic doctrine: a re-evaluation of the Riha paten, its decoration and its historical context

Abstract The iconography of the Communion Apostles, a theme well established in Byzantine art after Iconoclasm, first appears securely dated context silver patens from Riha and Stuma. These plates were produced Constantinople sometime between 575 578. with twofold depiction Christ is usually explained as reflection liturgical practice Eucharist, namely, two actors Eucharistic rite, priest deacon distributing bread wine. I argue instead that during early period an expression natures directed against Miaphysites. propose exceptional appearance scene church treasures northern Syria likely to be by its Christological significance regard Chalcedonian doctrine persecution Miaphysites 570s.