Iconostases

An iconostasis is a wall, screen, or partition at the front of an Eastern Christian church that separates the sanctuary from the nave and bears a collection of icons. It is a defining architectural element in most Orthodox, Eastern Catholic, and some Oriental Orthodox churches, serving both liturgical and devotional functions.

A typical iconostasis is a decorated screen that may be full-height or lower, with a central passage through the royal or great doors and two smaller side doors for the deacons. The royal doors are opened and closed at prescribed moments during the Divine Liturgy and other services, revealing or concealing the sanctuary beneath. The iconostasis usually carries icons arranged in horizontal tiers, often three to five in number. The lowest tier commonly shows local saints and church patrons; the middle tier features central figures such as Christ and the Theotokos, often with other saints or apostles; upper tiers include scenes from the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and major feasts. The exact composition varies by tradition and church.

Historically, the iconostasis developed in the Byzantine world during late antiquity and the early medieval period, becoming widespread by the 9th–11th centuries. Russian, Greek, and other Eastern Christian churches diverged in style, resulting in highly elaborate multi-tier iconostases in some regions, while simpler screens remain in others. Today the iconostasis remains a central liturgical and aesthetic feature, shaping the visual focus of worship and the relationship between the congregation and the sacred space.