Jewish, Early Christian, and Byzantine Art Answers

This piece is entitled, Virgin of Vladimir. Art was visually powerful during the Middle Byzantine period. Much of the art reflected the strongly spiritual focus of the wealthy leadership. Artists painted icons of religious figures were thought to have miraculous powers. Also, the face of Christ has adult-like features, which was prevalent during this time period.

This is the Wall of Torah Niche. It depicts a story form the Jewish Torah (sacred scripture). The wall depicts common stories to the Jewish people. The artist has used strong outlines and flat colors.

#1: Menorah - It is a symbol of paradise and the end of exile for the Jewish people. #2: Ram’s Horn - It was considered sacred and used during ceremonial occasions. #3: Citron - It symbolized prosperity and good fortune for harvest.

In 313, Constantine issued the Edict of Milan granting all people in the Roman Empire freedom to worship whatever god they wished. Because Christians could worship freely, Christian art could now also be shown publicly.

This is entitled, The Old Testament Trinity. It shows the three angels who visited Abraham in the Old Testament. This painting shows the ideal geometry invented by artists during this time period for human forms. The geometric figures are simple and similar in features. The subjects’ are elongated, meaning their necks and arms are long, and in general they are tall and slender. The composition of the figures is also geometric, for they are placed in a triangular form.