Byzantine Art

Guido da Siena - Adoration of the Magi - 1270s - Tempera on wood, 34 x 46 cm - Lindenau-Museum, Altenburg (click photo for larger image)In terms of time and location, Byzantine art refers to the artistic production of the Eastern Roman Empire, the Christian empire whose capital was Constantinople (now known as Istanbul). The empire endured from c. 330 CE following the Roman Empire in the east, until it was conquered by the Turks c. 1450. The term, however, refers more to its style than to its location. Byzantine art is characterized by a rich use of color, figures, opulence and linearity. The figures often appear to be floating, and have large eyes--against golden or toned backgrounds. The style had a large impact on Modern art, which wouldn’t develop until the twentieth century. The Italian painter Guido da Siena (active in the second half of 13th century) and one of the founders of the Sienese school) was one of the few known practitioners of the style). The names of most Byzantine artists are unknown.