Women in the Mosaics of the Basilica of Aquileia

In 315, just after Constantine rose to power,

a new Christian basilica was built at Aquileia

in Italy and beautiful floor mosaics installed.

The 20th-century discovery of these ancient mosaics hidden beneath a

newer church floor brought to light one of the wonders of early

Christianity.

A shepherd

Jonah thrown overboard

The image of a young man graces

the cover of most books about these

mosaics.

Here is his portrait on the mosaic floor.

Little noted is the way portraits of women surround the young

man’s.

Also often noted is the figure of a young man

carrying a basket of bread.

The young man offered bread . . .

Less commented upon are scenes of women

near that of the young man.

A young woman offered grapes . . .

Another offered a dove . . . perhaps a symbol of prophecy.

Another woman brought incense in censers. . .

Another brought a cornucopia.

And one woman sacrificed with fire.

All performed around a female figure of Victory.

All performed around a female figure of Victory.

How did early Christian girls feel when they entered this sacred space?

Art as Text

By Ally Kateusz

In honor of Jane Schaberg