Byzantine art encompasses the artistic production of the Byzantine Empire, which spanned from the 4th to the 15th centuries CE, evolving from the art of the Roman Empire and deeply rooted in Christian iconography. Characterized by its spiritual and imperial focus, Byzantine art utilized rich materials such as gold and vibrant colours to engage the viewer's senses and convey a sense of the divine.[1]
Byzantine art drew from classical Roman traditions, but developed distinct styles in mosaics, icon painting, and architecture, emphasizing hierarchical compositions and symbolic meanings. Innovations in dome construction, particularly the use of pendentives, allowed for the creation of monumental and light-filled churches. The development of standardized iconographic types, such as Christ Pantocrator and the Virgin Hodegetria, became central to Christian practice and spread throughout Eastern Europe and beyond.
Byzantine emperors used art and architecture to project their power and legitimacy, associating themselves visually with Christian figures. The Iconoclastic Controversy (8th and 9th centuries) significantly impacted the development of religious imagery, leading to the codification of iconographic rules following the restoration of icon veneration.
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- ↑ "Byzantine Art" on theartstory.org