Byzantine Mosaics

Mosaic art flourished in the Byzantine Empire from the 6th -15th century, centred around Constantinople. Its complex religious imagery and intense use of gold and silver creates art of unparalleled luxury.

Byzantine mosaics show a strongly Eastern influence and use special glass tesserae, called Smalti. These are cut from thick sheets of coloured glass which can also be backed with silver and gold leaf to give these mosaics their unique sparkle.

Whereas Roman mosaics tended to be used on floors, Byzantine mosaics were most often made as decorations for walls and ceilings.