Martyrdom of St. Lawrence (detail) 425

This detail from the "Martyrdom of St. Lawrence" mosaic, created in the 5th century and located in the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia in Ravenna, Italy, is a testament to the artistry of Byzantine mosaicists. The intricate, geometric pattern of the mosaic, crafted from tiny pieces of glass and stone, depicts a bookcase filled with scrolls, each labeled with the names of the four Gospels - "Marcus," "Lucas," "Matthews," and "Joannes." This detail highlights the importance of the Christian scriptures in the Early Christian era.