A Methodological Approach to the Study of the Imperial Panels of San Vitale, Revenna

Helena Dean

Date of Award

2004

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Humanities

First Advisor

Carrasco, Magdalena

Keywords

San Vitale, Ravenna, Mosaics

Area of Concentration

Art History

Abstract

This thesis attempts to reach a better understanding of the imperial panels of San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy through a methodological approach. These mosaic panels, which date to about 540-547, are perhaps the most recognizable and most studied works of Early Byzantine art. They depict the emperor Justinian (525-565) and the empress Theodora (525-548) surrounded by members of the imperial court and the clergy. This project examines several different approaches that scholars have taken in their studies of the panels. These include stylistic approaches, historical approaches, approaches concerning ceremony and liturgy, and approaches concerning the viewer. A methodological approach offers a review and critique of previous scholarship, as well as a better understanding of the conclusions and implications of previous research methods. This thesis will try to answer questions regarding the meaning and function of the imperial panels by exploring the methods in which they have been studied.

Rights

This bibliographic record is available under the Creative Commons CC0 public domain dedication. The New College of Florida, as creator of this bibliographic record, has waived all rights to it worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law.

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