Art History Notes: Byzantine, Islamic, and Romanesque Art
Art History Notes
Byzantine Art (up to 15th Century)
Key Events:
- 313: Christianity becomes the official religion.
- 324: Emperor Constantine moves the Roman Empire to Byzantium (Constantinople, Istanbul).
- 395: Theodosius divides the empire into East and West.
- 476: Fall of the Western Roman Empire.
Characteristics: Theocracy, religious art, mosaics, icons, frontal and rigid figures.
Sculpture: Small ivory reliefs.
Painting: Icons and illustrations with frontal and rigid figures.
Architecture: Basilicas with domes, mosaics, arches, and half-domes.
Example: Hagia Sophia in Constantinople
Islamic Art (7th-9th Centuries)
Origins: 7th century Saudi Arabia, expressing the Muslim religion.
Characteristics: Decorative, geometric patterns, calligraphy, no human or animal figures, horseshoe arches.
Sculpture: Ceramics, caskets, ivory (no human or animal figures).
Painting: Decorative, geometric patterns, calligraphy (no human or animal figures).
Architecture: Mosques, palaces, geometric shapes, domes, arches, courtyards.
Example: Mosque of Cordoba
Romanesque Art (10th-13th Centuries)
Context:
- Fall of the Roman Empire and instability.
- Germanic invasions.
- Rise of Christianity and feudalism.
Characteristics: Religious art, symbolism, Pantocrator, Christ in Majesty, Virgin and Child, thick walls, arches, barrel vaults, towers.
Sculpture: Decorative, symbolic, religious figures on church facades and capitals.
Painting: Murals and frescoes with religious themes, flat figures, bright colors.
Architecture: Churches, monasteries, castles, thick walls, arches, towers.
Examples:
- Church of St. Vincent de Cardona
- Tympanum of St. Peter Moissac
- Batlló Majesty
- Virgin of Nuria
Additional Notes:
This document provides a brief overview of Byzantine, Islamic, and Romanesque art. Each period has its unique characteristics and historical context. Further research is recommended for a deeper understanding of these art movements.