Byzantine Iconography
Byzantine Iconography refers to the visual art created in the Byzantine Empire, particularly from the 4th to the 15th centuries. This style is characterized by religious themes, often depicting figures such as Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints. Icons were typically painted on wooden panels and served as important objects of veneration in Orthodox Christianity.
The use of symbolism is central to Byzantine iconography, where colors, gestures, and facial expressions convey deeper spiritual meanings. Artists adhered to strict guidelines to maintain consistency and convey theological messages, resulting in a distinctive aesthetic that emphasized the divine rather than realistic representation.