ARH 143 Chapter Notes - Chapter 7: Christian Art, Cubiculum, Archangel
Document Summary
Chapter 7: catacomb: underground cemetery, st. peter: considered the rst bishop of rome, predecessor of today"s pope. Peter became the rock (greek petros) on which jesus founded the church: cubiculum of leonis, catacomb of commodilla: star studded heavens painted on the chamber. Face of christ painted within the heavens and surrounded by the the rst and last letters of the greek alphabet (alpha and omega symbolize the beginning and end of time). The halo of light around his head is a symbol indicating his importance and dignity. (halos were appropriated from late roman imperial art. These halos were often seen around the heads of emperors): narrative image: recounts and event, iconic image: offers a tangible expression of an intangible concept, both narrative images and iconic images were very prevalent in christian art. This art was used to teach non-readers new stories or concepts. This art would also highlight important beliefs and guide the religious devotional practice.
