Works of Byzantine Art and Architecture
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Begins: Thursday 3 October 2019
Until: Thursday 31 October 2019
(2-4pm) - Bloomsbury Central Baptist Church, 235 Shaftesbury Ave, London WC2H 8EP
- Lecturer: Dr Lyn Rodley
After a short overview of Byzantine chronology and art history, this course will analyse in detail a selection of specific works of different types, different media and various dates. The framework used will relate the works to broader issues in the subject area: the materials, functions and social contexts of Byzantine art and architecture and the nature of continuity and change over time. The works listed below are those to be studied in detail and a few other works will be used to broaden the discussion. There will also be study of relevant primary sources for which a handout will be supplied at the first session. This approach is designed to be accessible to those with little knowledge of the Byzantine empire and its arts, and at the same time offer those who already know the area the opportunity to explore particular works in detail.
1. Introduction: Byzantine chronology; architecture and its decoration
Hagia Sophia, Constantinople; Hosios Loukas, Stiris, Greece
2. Icons
Early icons in the Sinai collection; Icons of the Theotokos Hodegetria; Mosaic icon of the Twelve Feasts
3. Metalwork
Attarouthi hoard; Kosmas Cross; Holy Crown of Hungary; Crown of Constantine IX
4. Ivories
Barberini ivory; middle-Byzantine imperial ivories; Veroli Casket
5. Manuscript illumination
Rabbula Gospels; Paris Psalter; Illuminated Synopsis of Histories by John Skylitzes
Lecturer
Dr Lyn Rodley is an Associate Lecturer with the Open University and has taught a broad range of topics in Byzantine art and architecture at several other institutions, including Morley College in London, the Universities of Edinburgh, Cambridge and Queen’s University, Belfast, where she was Helen Waddell Visiting Professor 2003-2006. She is the author of Byzantine Art and Architecture: An Introduction (Cambridge 1994).
Waiting list only
This event is fully booked. Members may apply for one of the limited number of waiting list places, but no payment should be made. If a place becomes available, the waiting list will be contacted in chronological order and payment will be requested at that time. Please contact the event organiser if in doubt.