The artwork, titled “Petra Church Floor Mosaic,” is attributed to the collective known as “Byzantine Mosaics” and was created between approximately 450 and 550 CE. This piece, rendered in the medium of mosaïque, is part of the Early Byzantine art movement, which thrived from around 330 to 750 CE. The genre of this artwork is animal painting, and it is part of a series located in the Byzantine church in Petra, Jordan.
The artwork is a meticulously crafted mosaic featuring two deer within interconnected circular frames. The use of small, colored tiles brings to life the graceful forms of the animals, capturing intricate details such as their antlers and body posture. This mosaic exemplifies the remarkable skill and aesthetic sensibilities of Byzantine mosaicists, blending naturalistic representation with the decorative traditions of the period. The geometric patterns and earthy tones enhance the overall composition, creating a harmonious and enduring piece of ecclesiastical art.
