Saturday, February 7, 2015

Early Christian

The Early Christian design period lasted from 330-800 C.E. The term Early Christian is used to describe the art and architecture of the first Christian communities (Western Europe). 
There were many characteristics of Early Christian Architecture. Popular ones were centrally planned buildings, separate baptisteries, adaption of Roman basilica form of churches, separation of interior of churches into nave and flanking aisles, clerestory windows, entrance of church opposite apse, towers flanking exonarthex, and the chief goal was to glorify God.

Old St. Peter's Cathedral

An example of Early Christian Architecture was Old St. Peter's Cathedral in Rome. It was the chief monument of Christianity and the tomb of St. Peter. The exterior of the Cathedral was very plain while the interior is elaborate. It has masonry walls, clerestory windows, wood roof, and wood truss ceilings. The interior is covered with frescos of biblical accounts from the Old and New Testament.

Throne of Maximian 540 C.E.

Very few pieces of Early Christian furniture exist. The ones that have been found are very elaborate, decorated with caving and jewels. Typically the furniture from this design period follow the Roman style.

Most Early Christian current styles we see included tall Cathedral ceilings or arches. 




The video I found this week is a 3D reconstruction of St. Peter's basilica. It goes through what the exterior and interior looks like. 

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