DescriptionSolid Sterling SilverDimensions: 1 1/4″ wide by 1 9/16″ high including BailThe divine patterns hidden in matter that give shape, form and structure to the material world are revealed in Geometric designs. The masters of Byzantine art and architecture used their genius and vision to reveal these mysteries to the world through their art and architecture for the betterment of civilization and the enlightenment of men and women who might, according to their ability, behold the divine energies that radiate throughout creation.The traditional ornamental design that we present was inspired by carved marble panels found in the iconostasis of Hosios Loukas Monastery, an architectural masterpiece of Middle Byzantine art and architecture. This panel design perfectly captures the ancient Christian tradition of using geometric patterns in art and architecture to reveal the divine structures hidden in the material world. In Byzantine art the use of geometric forms and designs such as triangles, rectangles, squares, discs and rhombi create entire ornaments, which are incorporated into the architecture. The juxtaposition of geometry and art gracefully demonstrates the relative position and direction between events and objects in space. This intertwining of geometry and art dates back to ancient Greece; with the commission of Hagia Sophia in 532 by Emperor Justinian, the Christian Tradition of using geometric patterns in art and design rises to great heights and penetrates art, design and structure throughout the entire empire.Hosios Loukas is located in Phokis, Greece and is considered to be one of the best preserved churches of the 11th century. Evidence suggests that the Katholikon (larger church) was commissioned by a private benefactor as a “victory church” when Nicephorus Phocas recaptured the island of Crete under Romanos II in 961. Hosios Loukas is a restored and preserved pristine example of the use of geometric and patterned art in Christian tradition.
