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🎨art history i – prehistory to middle ages review

Mosaic of Justinian

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

The Mosaic of Justinian is a prominent artwork from the 6th century that depicts the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I surrounded by his court, symbolizing the unity of church and state. This mosaic, found in the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna, illustrates the significant stylistic changes of Late Antique art, showing how Christian themes were integrated with imperial power.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The Mosaic of Justinian is located in the apse of the Basilica of San Vitale and dates back to around 547 CE.
  2. In the mosaic, Justinian is depicted wearing purple robes, which symbolize his imperial authority, while holding a paten, representing his role in the church.
  3. The mosaic features other figures such as Bishop Maximianus and military leaders, emphasizing the blend of religious and political power during Justinian's reign.
  4. This artwork exemplifies the use of gold backgrounds and flat figures typical of Byzantine mosaics, creating a sense of divine illumination.
  5. The Mosaic of Justinian is often contrasted with the Mosaic of Theodora, which portrays Justinian's wife and equally represents their joint rule and influence in the empire.

Review Questions

  • How does the Mosaic of Justinian reflect the relationship between church and state during the Byzantine Empire?
    • The Mosaic of Justinian clearly reflects the intertwining of church and state by depicting Emperor Justinian I alongside religious figures, such as Bishop Maximianus. This arrangement symbolizes Justinian's role as both a secular ruler and a key figure in promoting Christianity. The presence of military leaders in the mosaic further emphasizes his authority over both spiritual and temporal matters, illustrating how art was used to reinforce political power and divine right.
  • Discuss the stylistic elements present in the Mosaic of Justinian that distinguish it as a work of Byzantine art.
    • The Mosaic of Justinian features distinct stylistic elements typical of Byzantine art, such as a gold background that creates a sense of ethereality and divine presence. The figures are portrayed in a frontal manner with elongated proportions and lack naturalistic depth, which directs focus on their symbolic importance rather than individual realism. Additionally, the use of intricate patterns and vibrant colors enhances the overall visual impact while conveying spiritual messages about authority and faith.
  • Evaluate the significance of the Mosaic of Justinian in understanding the cultural shifts occurring during Late Antiquity.
    • The Mosaic of Justinian is significant for understanding cultural shifts during Late Antiquity because it embodies the transition from classical art to a more abstracted style influenced by Christianity. As traditional Roman artistic conventions were adapted to serve new religious narratives, this mosaic illustrates how rulers like Justinian sought to legitimize their power through religious imagery. By integrating Christian themes with imperial iconography, it showcases how art was employed as a tool for unifying society under a shared belief system during a time of transformation.