Krzyż w ikonografii. W kierunku interpretacji teologicznofundamentalnej

The purpose of this article is to show cognitive value of the iconography of the Cross for fundamental theology and process of justification of credibility of this redemptive and salvific Event. Authors of article focuses on main motifs and themes of the staurological iconography and classify them in three groups: representations of the Trinity on the Cross (Throne of Grace), ecclesiological elements in representations of the Cross (connected with institution of the Eucharist and New Covenant, and establishing new people of God), and christological implications. Article indicates theological contents of each of that iconographical groups and shows that all of them make a contribution to understanding the reality of paschal mystery and the realm of the Church, help to reflect on the history of salvation, make it easy the contemplation of the mystery of the Cross. Iconography of resurrection of Cross has a sign structure and therefore it contains content of faith, and affects both the aesthetic and intellectual spheres of man. In this way the iconography of the Cross has cognitive functions and to some extent contributes to portraying the credibility of the Cross, Jesus Christ and the Church.