Ch.4 Byzantine

The time period of  the Byzantine Empire ( 325-1453), was considered the longest political entity in European history. During this era, pendentive construction became a popular style in structure of large buildings. The large dome suspended by four legs is refreshing twist on the dome we learned about in previous eras. To the left is a modern influence on the pendentive construction.

Typical Byzantine Church structure

I have always been interested in learning about how these buildings, their structure and how they have survived through the years. I found that, "of the total 150 Early Christian, Byzantine and Post-Byzantine churches in Athens, 24 have survived virtually intact, 20 remain in a ruinous state, 11 have been disfigured by later intervention, 10 have been replaced by new churches and 85 have been destroyed and no longer exist." I was surprised to learn that these churches have been replaced, and that 85 structures have been destroyed, that is a large amount of history lost. Something else I found very interesting in the construction of these buildings is the change in the capitols. Byzantine columns have a smoothed shaft, but are altered in the detailing of the capitol itself. In the detailing a cross is very prominent, the scroll, and leaf detail is vaguely prominent, and I find myself viewing these capitols as clean cut and professional.

Byzantine Capitols

The interior of Byzantine design has been impacted greatly by the introduction of Sicis, which is the mosaic artwork found on the floors, walls and in art pieces of Byzantine time. In these rooms below, inspired by Empress Theodora, art is reinvented through impeccable craftsmanship of Sicis and the incredible vision of Christian Lacroix.

Modern influence of Byzantine interior design

Dolce and Gabbana’s 2013/2014 line

Surprisingly enough, Byzantine design has influenced modern day apparel as well, as seen in the images from the Dolce and Gabbana 2013/14 fashion show to the left.

Resources:

• http://www.greeceathensaegeaninfo.com/h-athens/byzantine/byz-archetecture-primer.htm
• http://www.eroomservice.com/blog/2011/05/empress-theodora-is-reinvented-through-impeccable-craftsmanship-of-sicis-and-incredible-vision-of-christian-lacroix/