140 likes | 250 Views
Byzantine Art. Overview and Close Reading. Abstraction Illusionism Medium Symbolism Stasis/Dynamism Realism. Terms for Close Reading. Greco-Roman (or Classical) Art.
E N D
Byzantine Art Overview and Close Reading
Abstraction Illusionism Medium SymbolismStasis/Dynamism Realism Terms for Close Reading
Greco-Roman (or Classical) Art Discus-Thrower, Greece C. 450 B.C.E.
Greco-RomanArt Column of Marcus Aurelius 193 C.E.
Transition to Byzantine Art Diocletian Reform: Tetrarchy (315 C.E.)
By 5th Century, 3 dimensional sculpture no longer produced. Byzantine art is interested in 2-D surfaces Expresses spirituality, de-emphasizes the body Christ from Hagia Sofia
Iconoclasm Controversy • Icon – 2-dimensional image of holy figure • Church permits starting 3rd 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 VirginHodegetria • “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 • Built 532-537 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) • 12th Century • Materials reflect wealth of society