Ancient mosaic pavements; themes, issues, and trends.

9789004167544

Ancient mosaic pavements; themes, issues, and trends.

Hachlili, Rachel.

BRILL

2009

317 pages

$437.00

Hardcover

NA3760

This beautiful book on early Byzantine mosaics in Israel, Petra and Gaza is more than just a study of decorative art. Hachlili (archaeology, University of Haifa) compares and contrasts the subject matter of synagogues, churches and secular spaces, showing the shared Jewish, Christian and Greek traditions. Covering the period from the first century b.c.e. to the eight century c.e., the mosaic floors depict a wide range of religious and secular topics. Both churches and synagogues were likely to have the signs of the zodiac as well as biblical scenes. Synagogues would have menorah and Torah Shrine images, whereas churches might show scenes of rural life. Both often contained inscriptions to educate the worshippers. Hachlili pays particular attention to possible symbolism in all these while reminding the reader that sometimes an object can have a purely decorative purpose. Her attention to detail and in depth research of the history of the period makes this an invaluable aid for anyone studying the turbulent world of those who commissioned these pavements. Chapters on the various subjects discuss daily life and worldview. She also explores the workshops and techniques of the artists who created them. The work is profusely illustrated with color plates, maps, sketches and black and white photos.

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