Mosaic Floor 549

byzantinemosaics

Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, Ravenna, Italy

natural stone pattern

toned paper

water colours

worn

pattern

chalky texture

carved into stone

repetition of pattern

wooden texture

regular pattern

watercolor

This Byzantine mosaic floor, dating back to 549, is located in the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, Ravenna, Italy. The intricate design features a central motif of a cross surrounded by four swirling, interlocked spirals created by the use of small, irregular tesserae of white, black, and gray stone. The mosaic floor, a testament to Byzantine craftsmanship, is a captivating example of early Christian art.