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.
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