Early Europe and Colonial Americas

What does early Christian art primarily focus on?

Faith and a fear of rendering the human body due to the commandment against graven images.

What was the Catacomb of Priscilla used for?

It served as a burial site for early Christians, with about 40,000 dead people.

What is depicted in the Orant Fresco?

An orant pose with half-moon shapes, and imagery signifying marriage, birth, and symbols like birds and peacocks.

Who is depicted as clean shaven in the Good Shepherd fresco?

Jesus.

What story does the fresco associated with Jonah illustrate?

The story of Jonah being swallowed by a whale after disobeying God.

What are the key features of the Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus?

Ten relief panels depicting biblical figures such as Adam and Eve and the sacrifice of Abraham and Isaac.

What is significant about Old St. Peter's plan?

It was a basilica built facing east to align with the rising sun.

Why did Saint Peter die upside down, according to tradition?

He felt unworthy to die in the same manner as Jesus.

What architectural feature is prominent in Santa Sabina?

Coffered wooden ceilings and clerestory windows.

What does Spolia refer to in Santa Sabina?

Repurposed materials taken from other structures, like columns from the Temple of Juno.

What theme does 'The Parting of Lot and Abraham' mosaic illustrate?

The separation of Lot and Abraham, highlighting their different paths.

What materials is the 'Woman sacrificing at the Altar' made of?

Ivory.

Define a diptych in art.

An artwork consisting of two pieces or panels that create a single piece of art together.

What visual style is prominent in St. Michael the Archangel?

Lack of grounded figures and floating representations.

What is unique about the illumination from the Vatican Vergil?

It contains pagan content despite being sacred text.

What narrative does 'Rebekah and Eliezer at the Well' represent?

Rebekah giving water to Eliezer while searching for a bride for Abraham.

How does the Jacob Wrestling the Angel manuscript depict the story?

With a continuous narrative where Jacob wrestles with an angel under a bridge.

What is the Hagia Sophia's architectural significance?

It's a centrally planned structure with a large dome supported by pendentives.

What type of artwork was prominent in San Vitale during the reign of Justinian?

Mosaics showcasing religious figures such as Emperor Justinian and his attendants.

In the context of iconography, what are iconoclasts?

Individuals who oppose the use of religious images.

What does the Term 'Theotokos' refer to in Christian art?

The Virgin Mary as the Mother of God.

What event does the Crucifixion mosaic in the Church of the Dormition represent?

The promise of a new life through the crucifixion of Jesus.