Byzantine Art Multiple Choice

These flashcards cover key concepts and details related to Byzantine art, including purposes, techniques, architectural elements, and significant historical context.

What was the primary purpose of Byzantine art?

Religious expression.

Which empire is associated with the development of Byzantine art?

Eastern Roman Empire.

What artistic decorative technique is most characteristic of Byzantine churches?

Mosaics.

What is an icon in Byzantine art?

A sacred image on a flat panel.

What architectural element symbolizes heaven in Byzantine churches?

The dome.

Which plan is typical of Byzantine church architecture?

Greek cross.

What was the role of the Church in Byzantine art production?

It monopolized and controlled artistic production.

What is a squinch used for in architecture?

To support domes on square bases.

What is the iconostasis?

A wall separating the sanctuary from the nave.

Which emperor moved the capital to what nowadays is Istanbul, marking the start of Byzantine art?

Constantine.

What is the hieratic scale in Byzantine art?

Larger figures to indicate importance.

Which material was commonly used in Byzantine sculpture?

Ivory.