Artistic portraits of Melchisedek Znachko-Yavorski

Abstract

Abstract. Since the middle of the 19th century, the abbot of the Trinity Motronyn Monastery, Melchizedek Znachko-Yavorsky, has been the focus of attention of historians who study the problems of socio-political and religious relations in Right-Bank Ukraine in the 18th century. In addition to his life and activities, it is necessary to study his portrait, which constantly accompanies scientific publications. The article proves that the main image of the abbot was the portrait, which is now stored in the National Reserve "Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra". This portrait was first published in 1864 by the historian Feofan Lebedyntsev, but then it underwent changes. Scientific novelty. For the first time in historical science, an analysis of the appearance of portraits of abbot Melchizedek and their changes in the context of state policy and historical knowledge about him existing in the 19th century is carried out. The research methodology is based on systematicity, the use of methods of analysis, logic and comparison. With their help, it was possible to establish the sequence of creating portraits of Melchizedek Znachko-Yavorsky and making changes to his image. Conclusions. The early portrait, which is stored in the funds of the National Reserve "Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra", was created at the beginning of the 19th century. Later, this image was corrected, as a result of which Masonic symbols disappeared from it. And on its basis at the end of the 19th - beginning of the 20th century. a new portrait was made, which was stored in the Trinity Motronynsky Monastery. In addition, the early image of the abbot indicates that Melchizedek Znachko-Yavorsky belonged to the Masonic organization.