Gospel Book Cover

A silver Gospel book cover from the Church of Saints Constantine and Helen within Alaya Castle. The object is an outstanding example of Asia Minor silversmithing from the early 20th century, executed with repoussé and hand-hammering techniques that allow for the detailed rendering of complex subjects.
The composition is organised into individual iconographic panels depicting episodes from the New Testament—such as the Annunciation, the Nativity, the Resurrection, and the Dormition of the Theotokos—framed by prophets and angels. The symmetrical arrangement, dense ornamentation, and narrative completeness associate the work with workshops in Cappadocia and the broader inland of Asia Minor, which preserved traditional Byzantine models into the early 20th century.
Donated to the collection of the Alaya Association, it is exhibited at the ALAYA Cultural Centre.