Ch. 7: Early Jewish and Christian Art (1 of 3)

Introduction to the Period

• The reign of Constantine is pivotal between ancient and medieval worlds.
• Changes in society, politics, and art were complex and gradual.
• Focus on art from the transition period between the legalization of Christianity and the fall of the Roman Empire.

Legalization and Growth of Christianity

• Edict of Milan in 313 CE: Legalized Christianity.
• Rapid growth: Christianity became the official state religion by 391 CE under Emperor Theodosius.
• Old pagan religions were banned.

Art of the Late Roman Empire

• Majority of art related to Roman Christianity, also touching on Judaism and Jewish art.
• Art did not differentiate much in style but rather in subject matter.
• Early Christian art was largely based on existing Roman art and symbolism.

Depictions in Early Christian Art

• Jesus depicted variably as a young shepherd or a Roman emperor/philosopher.
• Pre-existing Greek, Roman, and Middle Eastern styles were incorporated.
• Imagery like angels were adopted from Greek and Roman depictions, transforming into modern interpretations.

Jewish Art and Early Christian Adaptations

• Relationship between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam traced to Abraham.
• Holy texts of Christianity are closely linked to Jewish texts.
• Christian art used Old Testament stories for symbolism and foreshadowing.

Important Biblical Stories in Art

Old Testament

• Adam and Eve: Original sin and expulsion from Eden.
• Abraham and Isaac: Covenant with God and the story of sacrifice.
• Jonah: Story of Jonah and the great fish, symbolic of resurrection.

New Testament

• Birth, life, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• Events like the Nativity and Annunciation are significant in art.
• Jesus’s miracles and his crucifixion and resurrection formed the basis for Christianity.
• Differences in biblical canon among Christian denominations.

Perspective on Religious Texts

• The lecturer’s background as a lapsed Catholic.
• Biblical texts are approached as symbolic and literary, not literal or historical.
• Importance of understanding translations and interpretations over time.

Conclusion

• Transition in Christian art was closely linked to historical contexts and religious texts.
• The narrative of Jesus and related biblical stories were crucial in shaping early Christian artworks.