Three Wise Men: Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh – The Traditions of the Magi

Friday 20 November, 7.30pm – everyone is welcome, no need to book

Our speaker is Chris Bradley

@ Lymington Baptist Church (opposite St Barbe)

We warmly invite all Friends of St Barbe to join us for this special talk and discover the fascinating history, symbolism and enduring appeal of the Three Wise Men.

 The term ‘Magi’ refers to the Zoroastrian priest-sages, anonymous wise men who were specialists in medicine, religion and astronomy, who travelled from ‘The East’ – variously identified as almost any country from Arabia to Persia. Tradition has placed the number of Magi at three, relating to gold, frankincense, and myrrh, but earlier versions have the number between two and thirty. It is one of the most famous legends used by storytellers and artists alike, with Melchior, Caspar and Balthasar becoming universal symbols and representations, such as the three ages and races of man.

We investigate the sources for the stories of their journey and the symbolism of their gifts. One of the most popular religious subjects for Renaissance artists is the Adoration of the Magi and we look at how the three are depicted. The story of Empress Helena and her search for sacred relics is told in the wonderful Arezzo frescoes of Piero della Francesca. Helena’s attempts to find traces of the Magi led her envoys around the Middle East, taking us on a journey from Constantinople to Milan and finally Cologne.

Whether you are interested in history, religious traditions or great works of art, this promises to be a thought-provoking and entertaining evening.

Friday Talks take place at Lymington Baptist Church on the THIRD Friday each month unless otherwise stated | Doors open 7pm | Talk starts 7.30pm | ALL WELCOME | Friends FREE | Guests £5