Mosaics in the Medieval World

From Late Antiquity to the Fifteenth Century

Liz James

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Year: 2017
• Print ISBN: 9781107011984
• eBook ISBN: 9781108514552
• Topic: Art
• Subtopic: Art General

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.

Table of contents

• Cover
• Half-title page
• Title page
• Copyright page
• Dedication
• Contents
• List of Illustrations
• List of Maps
• List of Tables
• Acknowledgements
• A Note on Names
• List of Abbreviations
• Introduction: Mosaics Matter
• Part I Making Wall Mosaics
• Part II Mosaics by Century
• Appendix of Sites
• Notes
• Bibliography
• Subject Index