Byzantine Art Project
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Original Work of Art
Analysis
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The Church of San Vitale
Church of San Vitale, view of facade, Ravenna, c. CE 530-548
Church of San Vitale, aerial view
Religion:
Christian church- place of worship for Christians
Achievement:
Octagonal shape
Squinches- small vaults on each angle of the octagonal walls- support the dome
Beautiful mosaics in interior
Economic:
Gold and riches adorning the walls inside the church portray the wealth of the Byzantine empire
Riches also portray the importance the liturgy in the distribution of the empire's wealth
Social
The presence of a Christian church in Ravenna, Italy shows Justinian's influence as an emperor
The presence of a church provides proof of peoples' religious life-style during the Byzantine empire- an influence of Justinian
Church of San Vitale, plan