Developed at least from the 6th century, developing into multiple ambones in Italy some centuries later, the ambo recalls the Lord’s empty tomb, considered a “Monument of the Resurrection and was often decorated with imagery recalling the resurrection:
- Jonah & the Whale (Luke 11:29-32; Matthew 23:38-42)
- Peacocks – oblique reference to eternal life from pagan culture
- Eagle – Saint John, first disciple to see into the empty tomb
- Lions – associated with cemeteries and reviving their young
- Paschal Candle – blessed and lit on Easter night, recalls Christ, risen from the dead, light of world
A video below, and then some pictures.
