Mosaics and Wall Paintings

Christ as the Good Shepard 

Unknown Commissioner

Before 256

Wall painting

Original Location: Dura-Europus Baptistry, Dura-Europus, Syria.

Current Location: Yale University Art Gallery

Little town in Syria with several religions all respecting each other. Contained a Jewish Synagogue as well as a Christian Baptistry, baptism is cleansing of original sin. 

Fish and Bread

Unknown Patron

3rd c.

Wall Painting

Crypt of Lucina, Catacomb of Callixtus, Rome

The depiction of fish and bread are two common symbols in christianity, story about feeding the masses, fish represent the Ichthys (Jesus Christ, the Son of God, Savior acronym in Greek), bread is the body of christ.

Christ as the Good Shepard and Scenes from Jonah’s Story, and Orans

Unknown Patron

4th c.

Ceiling Painting (Burial Chamber)

Catacomb of St. Peters and Marcellinus, Rome

Once again symbols we’ve seen, Oran figures are those in perpetual prayer. Layout depicts a cross, motifs for the dead—like Jonah they will be saved. Message of salvation/comfort. 

Christ as The Good Shepard 

Galla Placidia

ca. 425-450

lunette mosaic

In the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Ravenna, Italy

-Ravenna was the new capital of the Western Roman Empire.

-Building program centered around this Mausoleum.

-Christ looks almost royal, paler skin/white, looks like an aristocrat

Saint Lawrence

Galla Placidia

ca. 425-450

lunette mosaic

In the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Ravenna, Italy

-Contains a library with the four gospel writers.

-Martyr story.

Procession of Female Virgin Martyrs

Theodoric the Great

ca. 500

Mosaic

Location: Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Ravenna, Italy

-Facing East to West, towards Virgin and Child in the nave.

-Crowns they hold represent their martyrdom.

-Cultural revival under Theodoric

Justinian and his Retinue with Maximus

Justinian

546-548

Mosaic

San Vitale Church, Ravenna, Italy

-Justinian offering the Paten (sacred plate) to the Church. Attended with Maximianus, more important than Justianian?? Subtle—standing in front of Justinian.

-By the apse, along with a mosaic of his wife and one of Jesus. Close to altar. Show their closeness to the divine.

Theodora and Her Court

Justinian

546-548

Mosaic

San Vitale Church, Ravenna, Italy

-On the hem of her robe, 3 magi offering gifts to baby Jesus and this is a parallel of her offer to the Church.

-Decadent Jewelry. 

Christ Pantokrator

ca. 700

encaustic and gold on panel

Monastery of St. Catherine, Mount Siani, Egypt

-Represents Christ as the all-knowing ruler/leader of the world in perpetual blessing.

-Eyes represent serenity beyond human understanding.

-Meant to be looked at with the light of a candle.

-Icons provide security and protection from harm.