I would imagine that the images you saw in the Orthodox Church are similar to those you would find in a Catholic Church. They are likely used as reminders, just as keeping a photo of your mother in your home might bring her to mind when you see it.

God himself commanded the creation of some three dimensional images, or statues. For example, gold Cherubim (Ex. 25:18-20) and a bronze serpent on a staff (Num. 21:8-9). I believe that even some Protestant Churches display Nativity scenes with statues during the Christmas season. Not for worship, but as a visual reminder of the event.

As for bowing to an image, there is bowing in respect, and then there is bowing in worship. Like in Japan, people often bow when meeting someone, out of respect, not worship.