Byzantine Mosaics: The Golden Age of Mosaic Art

The Byzantine Empire, from circa 330 to 1453 CE, was largely regarded as the golden age of mosaic art. In this period, mosaics reached unprecedented levels of splendor and sophistication, becoming the characteristic hallmark of Byzantine architecture and forms of religious expression. The following post describes some of the features, techniques, and famous works of Byzantine mosaics, which have created a lasting legacy in the history of art.

 

The Byzantine Empire: The Cultural and Artistic Centre

The Byzantine Empire was the continuation of the Roman Empire in the East, seated at Constantinople, now modern-day Istanbul. Emperor Constantine the Great adopted Christianity, and thus began the visible change in artistic subjects and forms. One of the major mediums through which religious narratives and glorification of the divine could be expressed was through mosaics, which decorated churches, basilicas, and public buildings.

 

Characteristics of Byzantine Mosaics

Religious Themes and Iconography

Byzantine mosaics represent an incredibly rich religious symbolism and iconography. Very often, they included the image of Christ, the Virgin Mary, saints, and scenes from the Bible. These mosaics served not as decoration but as a means for worship and visual learning of the religion.

 

Use of Gold and Glass Tesserae

One of the most typical characteristics of Byzantine mosaics is their extensive use of gold tesserae. Thin sheets of gold leaf were sandwiched between layers of clear glass to create luminosity that caught and reflected light, symbolizing the divine presence. Glass tesserae, in various colors, lent vibrancy and added a three-dimensional effect to the compositions.

 

Stylized and Hieratic Figures

Byzantine mosaics feature tending figures with slender bodies, large eyes, and solemn expressions. The idea behind this stylization was to bring out, or exaggerate, the spiritual and not the physical aspect of life in view of the divinity of the character. Besides, a hierarchical style of arrangement of figures—the most important centrally placed—reinforced religious hierarchy and significance.

 

Techniques of Byzantine Mosaic Art

Indirect Method

Byzantine artists used the indirect method for large mosaic pieces. First, tesserae were attached to a temporary backing material like cloth or paper and then transferred to the surface. In this way, it was possible to achieve very fine settings and make corrections more easily before the final installation.

Preparation of the Surface
A series of layers of plaster was applied to the surface to be decorated. The last, called the intonaco, was laid on in small squares while it was still damp and workable, so that mosaics might be applied directly onto it and hold a good bond with the surface.

Grouting and Polishing
The tesserae were laid, and grout was applied to the gaps to hold such pieces in place. The surface was smoothened and polished to increase the brilliancy of glass and gold, giving the mosaic its glittery characteristic.

 

Notable Works of Byzantine Mosaics

Hagia Sophia, Constantinople

Perhaps the most famous example of Byzantine mosaic art is that in Hagia Sophia, the grand cathedral built by Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century. Among its mosaics, Hagia Sophia contains glorious representations of Christ Pantocrator and the Virgin Mary, different emperors with their empresses. Gold, along with vibrant colors, provides a stunning view of divine and imperial majesty.

 

San Vitale, Ravenna

Another great masterpiece of Byzantine mosaic art is the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy. Among the famous mid-6th-century mosaics are those panels portraying Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora flanked by their courtiers. These mosaics are quintessential Byzantine work, done in gold, rich colors, and using the stylized figure in an extremely fine style.

 

Daphni Monastery, Greece

The best examples of 11th-century Byzantine mosaics are worked into the Daphni Monastery near Athens. In the central dome, a magnificent Christ Pantocrator is surrounded by scenes from the life of Christ. The mosaic works in Daphni Monastery are known for their emotional intensity and intricate detail.

 

Hosios Loukas, Greece

Another key site for Byzantine mosaics is Hosios Loukas Monastery. Built in the 10th century, its mosaic works include Christ, the Virgin Mary, and a variety of saints on a gold background. The mixture of sophisticated artistry with spiritual depth makes Hosios Loukas' mosaics particularly outstanding.

 

The Legacy of Byzantine Mosaics

Byzantine mosaics have, therefore, played a huge role in influencing the development of mosaic art within both Eastern and Western civilizations. Indeed, techniques, materials, and stylistic elements have been used by many talented artists to this day, as they remain inspiring in terms of their aesthetic value and spirituality. The luminous quality, together with intricate details of Byzantine mosaic art, goes on to prove the artistic and religious fervor within the Byzantine Empire.

In the following post, we shall cover the elegance and complexity of Islamic mosaics, which provided new geometrical patterns and calligraphic designs for the world of mosaic art. Join me as we continue this diverse and fascinating journey into mosaic history.

In the meantime you can read more here:

Mosaics of Hagia Sophia, Istanbul: The Fossati Restoration and the Work of the Byzantine Institute

The Glory of Byzantium: Art and Culture of the Middle Byzantine Era, A.D. 843-1261

 

Photo by Raimond Klavins on Unsplash