Byzantine Art USA - Photography Terms & Glossary

Glossary Of Art Terms [1]

Byzantine Art Byzantine art refers to the artistic traditions, styles, and cultural expressions that flourished within the Byzantine Empire from the 4th to the 15th century AD. Rooted in the Christian faith and influenced by Hellenistic, Roman, and Eastern traditions, Byzantine art encompassed various mediums including mosaic, icon painting, manuscript illumination, fresco, metalwork, and textiles.

Characterized by its spiritual symbolism, stylized forms, and rich ornamentation, Byzantine art served both religious and political purposes, conveying the theological teachings of the Orthodox Church and asserting the imperial authority of the Byzantine rulers. Iconography, in particular, played a central role in Byzantine art, with religious icons serving as objects of veneration and meditation for believers while also embodying the divine presence and mystical essence of the Christian faith. Notable examples of Byzantine art include the mosaics of Ravenna, the icon paintings of Mount Athos, and the illuminated manuscripts of the Byzantine monasteries, which continue to inspire awe and reverence for their timeless beauty and spiritual significance.