Byzantine Art Overview and Close Reading
Terms for Close Reading Abstraction Illusionism Medium Symbolism Stasis/Dynamism Realism
Greco-Roman (or Classical) Art Discus-Thrower, Greece C. 450 B.C.E.
Greco-Roman Art Column of Marcus Aurelius 193 C.E.
Details of Barbarian Women from Column of Marcus Aurelius
Transition to Byzantine Art Diocletian Reform: Tetrarchy (315 C.E.)
Justinian and His Men, c. 546 CE
Christ from Hagia Sofia By 5 th Century, 3 dimensional sculpture no longer produced. Byzantine art is interested in 2-D surfaces Expresses spirituality, de-emphasizes the body
Iconoclasm Controversy Icon – 2-dimensional image of holy figure Church permits starting 3 rd Century Iconoclasts: images = idolatry. 730 Emperor Leo III calls for destruction of all icons. Islam’s victories motivate iconoclasts Conflict in Byzantine Empire for 100+ years. Strain between Rome and East Great Schism of 1054
The Iconoclastic Transition CE
The Virgin Hodegetria “Wayshower” Mary’s hand indicates path to salvation Jesus’ gesture is one of blessing; thumb over forefingers symbolic of Trinity An icon form duplicated endlessly Gold-fringed purple mantle indicates imperial status
Hagia Sophia – Church of Divine Wisdom
Hagia Sophia Built CE Largest cathedral in the world for 700 years Justinian: “Solomon, I have surpassed thee.” Later a mosque (minarets), now museum
Metalwork Double sided pendant Mary (opposite side, Jesus) 12 th Century Materials reflect wealth of society