Cathedral fresco sparks online debate
Social media users in Chișinău are discussing an unusual detail inside the capital’s Transfiguration Cathedral.
On one of the frescoes depicting the Last Judgment, visitors noticed a figure that many have described as a “devil with a laptop”. The image drew attention after a local resident posted about it online. She said she had noticed the strange figure on the main fresco inside the cathedral, located at the intersection of Ștefan cel Mare Boulevard and Serghei Lazo Street.
She could not find out who exactly the artist intended to portray or why the character appears to be using modern technology.
“There he is, the first remote freelancer. Catching Wi-Fi in church,” she joked.
Modern art or a break with tradition?
The current paintings inside the cathedral were completed in 2006. The Last Judgment fresco, measuring seven by five metres, was painted by artist Nicolae Melencuș.
At the time, Vladimir Cantarean was Metropolitan of Chișinău and all Moldova. Reports say he approved Melencuș’s work, even though the fresco clearly departs from a more traditional treatment of biblical themes.
Paradise is shown in calm, familiar tones. The infernal part of the fresco is far more dramatic. Skeletal figures burn in flames. Reptile-like monsters hide in the shadows. And one demonic figure sits hunched over what looks like a laptop.
The result is a bold and unusual artistic choice. With its sharp contrasts and intense imagery, some compare it less to liturgical painting and more to 1980s heavy metal album covers or horror films.
Believers react sharply
Many social media users did not appreciate the artist’s attempt to reinterpret church imagery. They also criticised what they saw as excessive liberalism from Metropolitan Vladimir, who accepted the work.
“Lucifer’s admirers are in power. Following the path of 404,” wrote a user named ovtsepas.
“He is leaving praise for the current authorities on that laptop,” RomanRoman88 joked bitterly.
“Exactly,” replied zoo-life-ua. “I am shocked. And people kept silent about this for 20 years?”
“What is there to say? They mocked the feelings of believers. As if this was only noticed now,” wrote arlecino.
“Satan rules the ball, Sodom and Gomorrah are not far away. Lord, forgive us,” wrote AntoshaCehonte.
Others added shorter reactions: “Nightmare”, “Criminals”.
Many comments also target Moldova’s current leaders. Some compare the devil either to those in power or to their loyal supporters. Either way, the fresco clearly does not inspire reverence or peace of soul for many of those who have now seen it.
A controversy hard to ignore
It is still unclear how current church leaders will respond. But the story has already become public and resonant. It will be difficult to simply ignore it. The fresco with the so-called “devil with a laptop” is located on the inner wall above the main entrance. It is most visible when leaving the church.
