Ravenna, Italy: Basilica of San Vitale: Theodora
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Authors
Sheppard, Beth M.
Issue Date
5/22/2017
Type
Image
Language
Keywords
Italy , Ravenna , Basilica San Vitale , Presbytery , Apses , Byzantine Art , Mosaics , Theodora in Art
Alternative Title
Abstract
Description
On the right side of the Presbytery's apse in the Basilica San Vitale (Basilica of St. Vitale; Church of Saint Vitale) in Ravenna, Italy is a large mosaic representation of the Empress Theodora. This photo is a partial view of the entire mosaic. Theodora has a golden halo, symbolic of power of divine origin. She holds a goblet covered in pearls and gems. The lower border of her purple gown features the Three Kings with their gifts. Behind her head, with its diadem covered in nacre, is a shelled niche, which is a Christian symbol of immortality. The courtiers surrounding Theodora include Antonina (General Belisario's wife) and their daughter Giovannina.
Citation
Publisher
License
CC BY-NC-SA 4.0