Sacred Stimulus: Jerusalem in the Visual Christianization of Rome by Galit Noga-Banai

Research reveals that Jerusalem subtly influenced the visual Christianization of Rome between the 4th and mid-5th centuries, despite leaving no clear textual trace. Through meticulous analysis of mosaics, sarcophagi, and wall paintings, Galit Noga-Banai demonstrates how Rome visually engaged with Jerusalem's significance, particularly in asserting its claim as the head of the Church. Key findings include the reinterpretation of eschatological scenes to reflect Roman supremacy and the integration of Jerusalem's imagery into Roman art, such as in the mosaics of S. Constanza and S. Pudenziana. The study argues that visual rhetoric can uncover silent historical narratives, offering a novel perspective on late antique Rome's relationship with Jerusalem.

Maskarinec, M. (2019). Sacred Stimulus: Jerusalem in the Visual Christianization of Rome by Galit Noga-Banai. Journal of Early Christian Studies, 27(2), 338–339. https://doi.org/10.1353/earl.2019.0030