Artwork

Biserica "Sf. Nicolae", Cîineni Mici, comuna Cîineni, județul Vâlcea (1981)

Unknown , 1981

Biserica "Sf. Nicolae", Cîineni Mici, comuna Cîineni, județul Vâlcea (1981) is a photography by Unknown. It dates from 1981 and is held in the collection of the "Dimitrie Gusti" National Village Museum. A 1981 black-and-white photograph captures the 'Sf.

About this work

This black-and-white photo shows a small wooden church with a steep, dark roof.

This black-and-white photo shows a small wooden church with a steep, dark roof. The white walls are simple and plain. You can see small windows and a low bell tower.

It was taken in 1981 for a study about old religious buildings. The church is much older—built in 1733 and painted later. Locals say shepherds called Mocans built it.

This photo is part of a research report. You can find it at the Museum of Ethnography.

Overview

A 1981 black-and-white photograph captures the 'Sf. Nicolae' (St. Nicholas) church in Cîinenii Mici, Vâlcea County. The image is part of Research Report No. 663, focusing on cult monument architecture. The church itself dates back to 1733, with subsequent paintings in 1758 and 1864.

Subject & Meaning

The church, dedicated to St. Nicholas, holds significance due to its construction attributed to settled Mocan shepherds. Inscriptions reveal a mix of Greek and local patronage, highlighting cross-cultural influence in its founding and decoration.

Technique & Style

The church's architecture features a simple, white stone masonry exterior with a steep, dark roof, small windows, and a low bell tower. The construction materials include river stone for the foundation and alternating stone for the masonry.

History & Provenance

Built in 1733, the church underwent painting in 1758 and 1864. Inscriptions document various patrons and artisans, including Ionța zugrav. The photograph is archived at the Museum of Ethnography as part of the research report.

Context

The image was taken during excavations in Loviste Land (1981) as part of a broader study on cult monuments' architecture, providing a snapshot of the church's state at the time.