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.

'Oldest' Images of Christ's Apostles Found in Rome

Restorers used new laser technology to uncover the images.Reprinted from 22 June 2010 - BBC Mobile News EuropeArt restorers in Italy have discovered what are believed to be the oldest paintings of some of Jesus Christ's apostles.

Faces of Apostles Andrew, John, Peter and Paul were uncovered using new laser technology in a catacomb in Rome.

The paintings date from the second half of the 4th Century or the early 5th Century, the restorers and Vatican officials believe.

The images may have influenced later depictions of Christ's early followers.

"These are the first images that we know of the faces of these four apostles," said Fabrizio Bisconti, head of archaeology for Rome's numerous Vatican-owned catacombs.

Read the rest of the story here...