Hetoimasia

The term Hetoimasia ( in modern notation also Etimasie, Etimasia ) denotes the equipping of the throne of Christ according to the Book of Revelation 22, 1-4.

An icon with the theme of Hetoimasia shows the empty throne of Christ and in the background a cross that symbolizes the invisible presence of Christ. It is the representation of the throne preparation for the return of Christ and the Last Judgment.

The Etimasia (synonym: Throne of God) is an early Christian and Byzantine Trinity medium representation, who merge the symbols of the three divine persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, in one unit. The oldest Etimasia representation exists from the 4th century AD, another example from the 12th century AD can be seen in the middle of the Pala d' Oro in Venice. Most of these representations a throne ( a symbol of the father), lamb or cross ( son ) and pigeon or Book of Gospels contain ( Holy Spirit).