Worksheet #9  Early Christian Art

Define the following words:

Codex

Parchment

Rotulus

Vellum

v     List three characteristics of the third-century frescoes of Dura-Europos that are in line with artistic trends in pagan, Jewish and Christian art. (p. 302)

          a.

          b.

          c.

• Why is the story of Jonah a subject of so many paintings and/or carvings in Early Christian art? (p. 304)

v     List three attributes Christ acquired after Christianity became the official state religion. (p. 305)

          a.

          b.

          c.

* What is the significance of the Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus?  Include the carvings in your response. (p. 306-307)

v     What are the differences between a basilican church and Santa Costanza (11-9 & 11-10)? (p. 311-312)

v     In the mosaic of the Miracle of the Loaves and the Fishes (11-17), what stylistic changes occur that distinguish it from the Galla Placidia mosaic of Christ as the Good Shepherd (fig. 8-18)? (p. 316)

a.

b.

c.

d.

v     Describe two reasons so many illuminated manuscripts survive today. (Read “Medieval Manuscript Illumination”) (inset on p. 319)

          a.

          b.

Discussion Question

    Compare the basilica of Old St. Peter’s (11-7) with the reconstruction of the Aula Palatina (10-80 & 10-81).  What similarities and differences do you see in the plans, elevations, and building materials used? How was the more “spiritual” purpose of the Early Christian building reflected in the structure? This is an essay type answer so use your best writing skills.

 (use the information you read on pp. 297, 307, 310-12)