Soleils nocturnes. Visions progressives dans les edifices a coupole de l’Antiquite tardive
| Title in English | Nocturnal suns. Staging visions in Late Antique domes |
|---|---|
| Authors | |
| Year of publication | 2018 |
| Type | Article in Periodical |
| Magazine / Source | Etudes de lettres |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Keywords | domes; late antiquity; middle ages; iconography; decoration |
| Description | When we take into account the nocturnal setting of late antique baptism, the decoration of the domes of the fifth-century baptisteries in Naples and Ravenna reveal their secrets. It is in the contrast between the blue background, which dematerialises on the night sky, and the elements made in gold mosaic that a nocturnal sun emerges as focus point of the composition. The motif's symbolism, its character and role are discussed in the article, casting light on the complex dynamic existing between Church, candidates for baptism, and the setting of baptism. |