The Gold in the Mosaics of Ravenna

Ravenna's early Christian monuments, particularly their mosaics, showcase a significant evolution in artistic expression and ideological representation. The study reveals that the use of gold leaf tesserae in these mosaics was not merely decorative but served as a powerful symbol to convey the light of transcendence, the glory of Christ, and the authority of the Catholic Church. This shift from naturalistic representations to golden backgrounds marks a clear transition in artistic style and religious symbolism, reflecting the anti-Arian sentiment prevalent during the time of Arian ruler Theodorico's reign. The research highlights Ravenna as a unique site to observe these changes, given that many similar monuments in the Orient were destroyed for ideological reasons. The analysis of materials—including glass, stone, ceramic, marble, and mother-of-pearl—demonstrates the intricate craftsmanship and chromatic sensitivity employed by mosaicists.

MUSCOLINO, C. (2019). The Gold in the Mosaics of Ravenna. Journal of Mosaic Research. https://doi.org/10.26658/jmr.614880