Byzantine Style
An art style from the Byzantine Empire with gold backgrounds, flat figures, and religious subjects.
What is it?
Byzantine style developed in the Byzantine Empire from the 4th to the 15th century. It is characterized by rich colors, especially gold, and stylized, flat figures that look spiritual rather than realistic. Mosaics and icons are typical. The coin in your exhibit shows this style in the way Jesus and Justinian are depicted with halos and formal poses.
Why it matters
Byzantine style influenced the art of Eastern Europe and the Renaissance. It is still used in Orthodox Christian art today.
Where you've seen it
This list grows as you capture more Byzantine-style artworks.