Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

mandorla

noun

/ˈmæn.dɔːr.lə/

Definition

An almond-shaped figure or area, especially used in religious art to enclose a sacred person or a scene.

Examples

The artist painted the Christ figure within a mandorla, symbolizing his divine nature.
In many medieval paintings, the Virgin Mary is depicted inside a mandorla to signify her holiness.

Meaning

The term ‘mandorla’ refers to a specific shape often found in artistic representations, particularly in Christian iconography, symbolizing divine radiance or the intersection of heaven and earth.