Nature and Landscape Elements in Byzantine Mosaics

The belief and nature-oriented thinking that are evident in the art and architecture of Iran have been manifested more prominently in Iranian miniature painting than in any other artistic branch. The presence of nature and its elements can be observed in decorative and applied arts, in simple and geometric forms, and in romantic, mystical, heroic, and festive motifs and narratives. Various flowers and plants are always present in Iranian miniatures, depicting gardens, flower-filled courtyards, and orchards with water and various birds. The combination of a star-filled sky with the moon and the sun represents a blend of the real and imaginary world; a part of which is reflected in Byzantine mosaic art, with some of these works clearly showing the influence of Iranian miniatures. The coloring and use of natural symbols and signs in Iranian painting and Byzantine mosaics have their roots in naturalistic thinking and rituals, examples of which can be found in the museums and art centers of Europe and Asia, as well as in the Mehr and Anahita temples in Iran. The most prominent examples of Byzantine mosaics can be seen in the churches of San Vitale, Sant’Apollinare, and the holy sepulchers in Ravenna, Italy, the apse of the Church of San Clemente in Rome, and the Church of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. The interplay and continuity of the Mithraic ritual in Christianity and Zoroastrianism have shaped the art and culture of both Zoroastrians and Christians in a way that combines new beliefs with ancient cultural and artistic traditions.