From ancient Greece and Rome to the medieval world, Western art focused on myth, religion, and civic life through sculpture, architecture, and symbolic imagery.

Byzantine

c. 330–1453

Byzantine art developed within the Eastern Roman Empire. It focused on spiritual meaning rather than naturalistic representation. Icons, mosaics, and gold backgrounds conveyed divine presence. Art served religious worship and imperial authority.

Old Testament Trinity

Andrei Rublev

1410 CE

A celebrated Russian icon showing the three angels visiting Abraham, symbolizing the Trinity.

The Heavenly Ladder

Unknown

Late 12th century

A Byzantine icon showing monks ascending a ladder to heaven, attacked by demons along the way.

Christ Pantocrator

Unknown

1180–1190 CE

A famous Byzantine icon of Christ as ruler and judge of the world.

Bordalike Triptych

Unknown

10th century

A painted triptych used for private devotion, with religious scenes in small panels.

Kapnikarea Church

Unknown

c. 1050 CE

A small Byzantine church in Athens, blending Romanesque and Greek elements.

Church of St Irene

Unknown

6th century

One of the earliest Byzantine churches in Constantinople, later converted into an arsenal and museum.

Basilica of St John the Theologian

Unknown

6th century

An early Christian basilica in Ephesus, built over the supposed tomb of St John the Apostle.

Basilica of St Apollinare in Classe

Unknown

549 CE

A 6th-century basilica near Ravenna, known for its colorful mosaics and Early Christian architecture.

Emperor Justinian and His Attendants

Unknown Byzantine artists

c. 547 CE

A mosaic in Ravenna showing Justinian with clergy and soldiers, symbolizing imperial and religious authority.

Hagia Sophia

Anthemius of Tralles & Isidore of Miletus

532–537 CE

A monumental Byzantine church in Constantinople, famous for its massive dome and innovative engineering.

Basilica of St Sabina

Unknown

422–432 CE

One of Rome’s oldest basilicas, with a simple interior and carved wooden doors.

Sts Sergius and Bacchus Church

Unknown

c. 536 CE

A domed Byzantine church in Constantinople, known as “Little Hagia Sophia.”