Early Christian Flashcards
(37 cards)
Battle of Milvian Bridge
Date: 312; Event: Constantine conquers Maxentius taking control of and uniting the roman empire.
iconography
The depiction of a specific subject matter usually based on a specific text, and how the symbol changes over time
Edict of Milan
Allowed christianity to be practiced in public without fear of prosecution
catacomb
an intricate underground mass burial site and system
loculus
a small compartment that houses a body within a catacomb
cubiculum
a private room within a catacomb where someone may be buried; room is frescoed and possible meeting place for family
epitaph
a tomb inscription
acrolyth
A statue that uses many different materials
colossus
A very large statue
spolia
Taking pieces of prominent monuments to use on another monument; The reusing of materials to ass to the story of a new monument
syncretic
A form or belief assimilated from one cultural system to another; a belief that exists in two different cultural systems
signative
Intended to serve as signs
allusive
meaning revealed itself to those who knew what to look for; interpretation depends upon allusions shared by creator and viewer
Chi Rho
the symbol of christ in
criphorus
Ram bearer; the idea of christ carrying the lamb, signifies sacrifice, philanthropy
orants
The good Shepard
Plan
The layout of a building
Martyrium
A building or chamber used as a burial place. Martyrdom of saint Peter
Nave
Central part of the church building for the congregation
Aisles
A passage between rows of seats
Apse
A semicircular recess covered by a hemispherical vault or semidome
Transept
In a cross shaped church, the arms of the cross
Narthex
The porch like entrance of the church
Atrium
An open courtyard at the entrance of the church
