Crucifixion Triptych

Christianity is believed to have been introduced to Egypt around 33 C.E. by Saint Mark the Evangelist. Following the Arab conquest of Egypt in 600 C.E., Egyptian Christians adopted the name Copt, which means “Egyptian” in Arabic. While most Egyptians are practicing Sunni Muslims, Coptic Christians still make up around 10 percent of the population. Because of Egypt’s diverse population, many secular and religious art objects showcase a blend of Egyptian, Islamic, and Christian iconography. 

This Coptic icon represents the continuation of Christianity in Africa for thousands of years. Notice the writing above each figure and the sign above Jesus: the Latin INRI is written IRNI. This is not an error; it reflects the rules of Arabic script, which is written from right to left. A triangle symbolizing the Holy Trinity appears above the cross, with the eye of Horus or Ra depicted inside it. Like the Christian symbol of an all-seeing God, the eye of Horus/Ra was a powerful symbol of protection in ancient Egypt.

This blending of Christian, Arabic, Coptic, and Egyptian languages and icons highlights global connectivity and the combination of diverse beliefs and practices in African culture today.