Jewish & Christian Art Flashcards
What are the basics of the religious Jewish tradition?
- Polytheism → monotheism: there is only one true god
- Covenant: a deal with god
- Jews, the chosen people
- Prophets = those who speak for God and warn the people
- Awaiting the coming of the Messiah
What are the symbols of early Christian imagery?
- Fish symbols (fish, anchor, monogram)
- Images of personal salvation (Jonah with whale, Daniel with Lions den)
- Symbols of Christ (good shepherd)
Define Catacomb.
An intricate network of galleries and burial chambers cut out from tufa (soft volcanic rock in the area of Rome and Tuscany) beneath the city level.
Why did Christians, Pagans, and Jews bury bodied of their deceased in these catacombs?
Even though they were used to bury illegally practicing Christians, these catacombs survived and were not banned or destroyed, since Romans viewed the tombs as sacred. The cemeteries were legally registered and protected by Roman law even during periods of severe persecution. Everyone was buried together, without regard for one’s denomination.
What is a Sarcophagus?
A large stone or marble “coffin” used to house the body of the deceased. The wealthiest of Christians, largely patricians but also wealthy freedmen, imitated their pagan counterparts in ordering sarcophagi, which were
much more expensive than a loculus or even cubiculum in the catacombs.
define Mausoleum.
A building, especially a large and
stately one, housing a tomb or tombs.
What is unique about the Santa Constanza?
Circular church with circular hallways, domed brick roof. Meant for walking in prayer. As opposed to sitting, kneeling, or standing in prayer. Originally a Mausoleum for Constantine’s daughter.
