how does christianity affect the visual arts in the 5th and 6th century?

Abraham Ladick: Essentially they controlled art. The church dictated what was art what was painted,carved. And actually controlled who made art through their patronage of particular artist. And most of all what was acceptable. Although some sculpture was used,painting was the primary means of relaying biblical narratives in the church and cathedrals. Not many people were able to read,and those that could read more than likely could only read Latin or possibly Greek or both. Most books were hand written in monasteries by monks in Latin or copied existing works written in Greek. Most people were illiterate in their native languages. This wouldn't change until Gutenberg invented the printing press that used movable type ( carved letters that were easily changed and reused). and printing then became more widespread and books could be easily printed in any language. So religious paintings told the stories in pictures and was used to reemphasize the sermons or stories from ! the scripture that were seen as being more important.. Some of the imagery was symbolic,for instance the inclusion of a certain objects would have meaning to reinforce the story. A certain type of flower in the picture might signify purity, A dog would imply locality. Many of these symbols were commonly recognized during the time period and are presently know by historians. Many have been forgotten since.,...Show more