Art from the Byzantine Empire The beginning of Christianity The decline of the Roman Empire

Mosaic Art Mosaics began as simple and utilitarian surface coverage using small pebbles and cement on floors. Greeks were the first mosaicsts to use tesserae (tiny cut stones that gave allowed for more complex shading and shapes to be employed). Byzantine Empire used glass tesserae to reflect light and create sparkling surfaces. Meant to be seen from a distance (high in an apse, etc.) Unevenly set so that surfaces would reflect light differently Used to advertise to and educate people about Christianity

“Christ as the Good Shepherd”, 425 CE, moasic, entrance of the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Ravenna, Italy

“Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes”, 504 CE, Ravenna, Italy

San Vitale, Ravenna, Italy, 526-547 CE

“Justinian, Bishop Maximus, and Attendants”, 547 CE, mosaic, San Vitale, Ravenna, Italy

St. Louis Basilica