What is the central theme of the mosaic of Justinian at the church of San Vitale in Ravenna?
A major theme of this mosaic program is the authority of the emperor in the Christian plan of history.
How is Justinian portrayed in this mosaic?
In the chancel mosaic Justinian is posed frontally in the center. He is haloed and wears a crown and a purple imperial robe. He is flanked by members of the clergy on his left with the most prominent figure the Bishop Maximianus of Ravenna being labelled with an inscription.
What is the central theme of the mosaic of Justinian at the church of San Vitale in Ravenna quizlet?
The union of political and spiritual authority expressed in these mosaics reflect the divine kingship of Justinian. It shows that the emperor derives his power from the church and the military. Theodora is holding a chalice, suggesting that she is part of the church.
What is Justinian holding in the mosaic?
Emperor Justinian is shown dressed in a royal purple chlamys and jeweled stemma. He raises his hands in offering as he holds a gold paten, displaying his patterned tablion, a supplemental textile bearing a repeat pattern and most likely produced on a drawloom.
What is the major theme of the mosaic Emperor Justinian and his attendants?
A major theme of this mosaic program is the authority of the emperor in the Christian plan of history.
What is Byzantine mosaic art?
Byzantine mosaics are mosaics produced from the 4th to 15th centuries in and under the influence of the Byzantine Empire. Mosaics were some of the most popular and historically significant art forms produced in the empire, and they are still studied extensively by art historians.
What stories do the mosaics of San Vitale in Ravenna tell?
Inside, the intrados of the great triumphal arch is decorated with fifteen mosaic medallions, depicting Jesus Christ, the twelve Apostles and Saint Gervasius and Saint Protasius, the sons of Saint Vitale. The theophany was begun in 525 under bishop Ecclesius.
Why is the San Vitale important?
Church of San Vitale, also called Basilica of San Vitale, church in Ravenna, Italy, that was built in the 6th century and is considered a masterpiece of Byzantine achitecture. It is especially noted for the colourful mosaics of Christian iconography that decorate the interior walls and ceilings.
What does the vestibule mosaic represent?
The Vestibule Mosaic The mosaic is a Hymn of Laudation to the Mother of God; an Akathistos in color and light distinguished alike by its delicacy and vividness.
What is mosaic art?
A mosaic is a picture made up of small parts which are traditionally tiny tiles made out of terracotta, pieces of glass, ceramics or marble and usually inlayed into floors and walls.
Who did the mosaics in San Vitale?
Justinian and Theodora Mosaics in San Vitale The two most famous mosaics in San Vitale are definitely slightly younger and must date after 540, when the Byzantines had re-conquered Ravenna for the (Eastern) Roman Empire.