Light, Vision(s), Transformation. Experiencing Baptism in Canopied Fonts (ca. 230-ca. 500 CE)

Abstract

This article considers the ways in which the presence of canopies over baptismal fonts influenced the perception of the ritual experience and space. Attested in an important number of late antique baptisteries, canopies shaped the way in which fonts were perceived by conditioning their illumination. Additionally, they created meaningful associations with other canopied spaces and objects, thus adding to the symbolism of the ritual.