05-01 Byzantine Art
Byzantine Art (330-1453 CE)
Subject: Overview of Byzantine Art History and Key Characteristics.
Source: Excerpts from a lecture by Dr. Laurence Shafe on Byzantine art.
Main Themes:
- The Byzantine Empire as the Eastern Roman Empire: The presentation emphasizes the Byzantine Empire’s self-perception as a continuation of the Roman Empire, with its capital in Constantinople (modern Istanbul). “The Byzantine Empire regarded itself as the continuation of the Roman Empire with Constantinople as the new capital.” The presentation begins with establishing this historical context.
- Chronological Division of Byzantine Art: The presentation divides Byzantine art history into three main periods: Early Byzantine (c. 330-843), Middle Byzantine (843-1204), and Late Byzantine (1204-1453). Each period is characterized by distinct artistic styles, historical events, and influences.
- Iconoclasm as a Major Disruptive Event: The period of Iconoclasm (726-843) is highlighted as a significant event that dramatically impacted artistic production and resulted in the destruction of many religious images. “The early period ended with a 120 year period of iconoclasm when much of the art was destroyed.”
- Religious and Symbolic Nature of Byzantine Art: The presentation stresses the predominantly religious function of Byzantine art, with its focus on mosaics, icons, and architecture designed to inspire awe and convey spiritual meaning. Byzantine art “broke away from the naturalistic Greek and Roman tradition by adopting a more symbolic approach.”
- Influence of Classical, Western, and Islamic Art: The presentation acknowledges the influences of classical Roman art, as well as Western and Islamic art on Byzantine art during different periods. The Middle Byzantine period saw diversification in art influenced by the West and Islamic art.
- The Palaeologan Renaissance: The late Byzantine period (1204-1453) is characterised as a final revival of Byzantine art and literature, known as the Palaeologan Renaissance. This period is marked by emotional intensity, dynamic movement, and a renewed interest in secular themes.
Key Ideas and Facts:
- Founding of the Byzantine Empire: The Eastern Roman Empire, later known as the Byzantine Empire, was founded by Emperor Constantine the Great in 330 CE, who renamed Byzantium as Constantinople.
- The Nicene Creed: The Creed of Constantinople (Nicene Creed) established by Theodosius I, affirmed Jesus’ divinity and is a defining statement of mainstream Christianity.
- Key Emperors and their Impact: The presentation emphasizes the roles of key emperors in shaping Byzantine art, including:
- Constantine the Great: Legalized Christianity with the Edict of Milan (313), paving the way for Christian art.
- Theodosius I: Reunited the whole empire.
- Justinian I: Ushered in a golden age for art and architecture, notably with the Ravenna mosaics and the Hagia Sophia. “Justinian I “The Great” (527-565), brought in a golden age for art and architecture with lavish patronage and the creation of the Ravenna mosaics.”
- Leo III: Initiated Byzantine iconoclasm.
- Michael III: Ended iconoclasm and revived Byzantine art.
- Constantine X: The last emperor (1449-1453) before the Fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans.
- Hagia Sophia: The Hagia Sophia, built under Justinian I, is highlighted as the iconic Christian symbol of the Byzantine Empire and a masterpiece of architecture. “Hagia Sophia was built in 532-537 and became the iconic Christian symbol of the Byzantine Empire.”
- Ravenna Mosaics: The mosaics in Ravenna, particularly those in the Basilica of San Vitale, are presented as prime examples of Early Byzantine art, featuring Emperor Justinian I and Empress Theodora.
- Iconoclasm: The iconoclasm periods saw religious art destroyed or defaced due to theological interpretations against graven images. The torture of iconophile Bishop Euthymius of Sardis is used as an example.
- Macedonian Renaissance: A flourishing of art and literature (9th-11th centuries), a return to classical forms and a renewed interest in the human body.
- Komnenian Period: Experimentation and diversification in art influenced by the West and Islamic art (1081-1185).
- Sack of Constantinople (1204): The Crusaders sacked the city in 1204, leading to a decline in Byzantine power and a shift in artistic focus.
- Veroli Casket: Noted as the finest example of the ‘rosette caskets,’ it shows a revival of interest in classical Greek mythology.
- Late Byzantine art: Characterised by emotional intensity, dynamic movement, and a renewed interest in secular themes. An example is the frescoes at the Chora Church.
- Fall of Constantinople (1453): The conquest by the Ottoman Turks marked the end of the Byzantine Empire.
- Post-Byzantine Art: The presentation touches upon the continuation of Byzantine artistic traditions, particularly in Crete, and the influence of El Greco. It also mentions the later Neo-Byzantine art movement.
Quotes:
- “The Byzantine Empire regarded itself as the continuation of the Roman Empire with Constantinople as the new capital.”
- “Justinian I “The Great” (527-565), brought in a golden age for art and architecture with lavish patronage and the creation of the Ravenna mosaics.”
- “Hagia Sophia was built in 532-537 and became the iconic Christian symbol of the Byzantine Empire.”
- “The early period ended with a 120 year period of iconoclasm when much of the art was destroyed.”
Key Takeaways:
The presentation provides a concise overview of Byzantine art, emphasizing its historical context, key periods, stylistic developments, and religious significance. It highlights the Empire’s role as a bridge between classical antiquity and the medieval world, and its lasting influence on Western and Eastern art traditions.