The visual arts
Robin Cormack
Under detailed scrutiny, the period from 425 to 600 is seen represent a time of significant and conspicuous artistic production stylistic change complexity. If fourth century appears transition, yet dominated by traditional forms techniques, then in contrast it easy see that fifth witnesses considerable change, Christian art have become distinctive, many aspects later medieval been determined. This which produced present church St Sophia at Constantinople (532–7), one most dramatic influential buildings world architecture. achievement alone gives an identity its own right. Yet broad view, clear Christianity adapted rather than rejected values classical ‘pagan’ art. Hence predominant discussions this terms continuity or – put more precisely non-classical elements, either their interplay independence.
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