SOURCES OF KYIV RELIEFS WITH «SECULAR» PLOTS: ISSUE OF ATTRIBUTION AND DATING

The earliest Kyiv reliefs with figurative images correlate temples built in the second half of 11th — early 12th centuries. iconography and dating Ovruch pyrophyllite slate secular or indefinite plots has been subject research by more than one generation scholars. have found already damaged reused, so their original placement interior faзade, as well temple palace also remains a matter debate.
 study these context development Byzantine art shows that artists copied Christian patterns combined secular, mythological biblical plots, formation which took place under influence Classic heritage. According to conditions discovery, style, are works typological stylistic similarity four such permit suggest they were made for same building, although different parts city. They depict character Samson David, Cybele Great Mother Gods, warrior fighting lion fragment animal head goat lioness. Fragments two other looks like rider on its back, possibly David. depiction man riding beast is motif oriental origin became widespread Romanesque century, including Rus. Two fragments slabs depicting griffin high relief come from exterior decor. In 10th—12th centuries, vigilant guard sacred was depicted facades churches type «solemn procession». Kyiv’s probably included heraldic composition. question still disputable.