Description: In this book, Liz James offers a comprehensive history of wall mosaics produced in the European and Islamic middle ages. Taking into account a wide range of issues, including style and iconography, technique and material, and function and patronage, she examines mosaics within their historical context. She asks why the mosaic was such a popular medium and considers how mosaics work as historical 'documents' that tell us about attitudes and beliefs in the medieval world. The book is divided into two part. Part I explores the technical aspects of mosaics, including glass production, labour and materials, and costs. In Part II, James provides a chronological history of mosaics, charting the low and high points of mosaic art up until its abrupt end in the late middle ages. Written in a clear and engaging style, her book will serve as an essential resource for scholars and students of medieval mosaics.
Brief description: Liz James is a Byzantine art historian with an interest in mosaics. Her ambition is to see at first-hand all the mosaics discussed in this book, and she is approximately three-quarters of the way there. She is Professor of Art History at the University of Sussex, where she teaches courses on Byzantine art.
Review Quotes: 'This stunning new book will change the way you look at medieval mosaics ... The attention to detail and to making this book useable, with indices, lists of sites and bespoke maps, ensure that this will be a much-consulted book for anyone working on the late antique, early medieval and medieval built environment.' Caroline Goodson, Medieval Archaeology