Centuries-old mural discovered in Thrissur cathedral

Pazhanji: A centuries-old wall painting has been discovered at the St. Mary’s Orthodox Cathedral, an ancient place of worship at Pazhanji, near Kunnamkulam in Thrissur district of Kerala.

The mural was discovered when the whitewash was being removed from the upper part of a wall as part of the ongoing renovation work.

A painting that depicts a man along with a child is the new find. The man is seen touching the forehead of the child who is shown as lying down.

It is said the image depicts Abraham giving up his son Issac for sacrifice. Expert opinion is awaited.

This mural has been found inside the cathedral on its southern wall. Renovation of this portion has been temporarily halted. The same wall also bears an image showing the Resurrection of Christ. Another image of Eve giving the forbidden fruit to Adam is on the northern wall.

These murals are in a bad state as the passage of time has taken its toll.

Renovation is being carried out giving due consideration to the heritage value of the paintings.

Experts say the figurines and icons in the sanctum sanctorum (madbaha) of the cathedral bear resemblance to Western art styles.

It is believed that more murals could be found in the church.

Several people visited the cathedral on hearing about the discovery. Visitors were surprised to notice that most of the paintings here are in relatively good condition, probably due to the use of natural colours.

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