Byzantine Art Byzantine Art Overview and Close Reading
Jan 02, 2016
Terms for Close ReadingTerms for Close Reading
Abstraction
Illusionism Medium Symbolism
Stasis/Dynamism
Realism
Christ from Hagia Sofia
By 5th Century, 3 dimensional sculpture no longer produced.
Byzantine art is interested in 2-D surfaces
Expresses spirituality, de-emphasizes the body
Iconoclasm ControversyIconoclasm ControversyIcon – 2-dimensional image of
holy figureChurch permits starting 3rd
CenturyIconoclasts: images =
idolatry. 730 Emperor Leo III calls for
destruction of all icons. Islam’s victories motivate
iconoclastsConflict in Byzantine Empire for
100+ years. Strain between Rome and East
Great Schism of 1054
The VirginThe VirginHodegetriaHodegetria
• “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 SophiaHagia SophiaBuilt 532-537 CELargest cathedral in
the world for 700 years
Justinian: “Solomon, I have surpassed thee.”
Later a mosque (minarets), now museum