The Secular World
What attributes identify the Emperor?
In mosaics, manuscript illustrations, ivories, and sculpture the emperor is shown in the presence of Christ to validate his supreme powers and in formal poses displaying royal regalia, often surrounded by members of his court. Exclusive attributes identify the emperor: red shoes decorated with jewels, a long purple robe over which is worn a scarf covered with jeweled patterns, and a crown from which a strand of pearls is suspended on each side of his face (called pendulia). The emperor often carries a scepter of varying design and a scroll of imperial orders. He either stands on a dais to elevate him above others or sits in a throne with his feet resting on a
cushioned stool.
How did the Emperor display his power?
To display their power, erudition, and good taste, members of the Byzantine court and administration commissioned luxury goods such as ivory boxes to keep valuables in, silks woven in patterns, manuscripts illustrated with scenes of classical myths and literature, and elaborate gold jewelry decorated with cloisonné enamels, pearls, and gemstones. Silks, one of the most treasured materials, ivory boxes, and gold works, of course, were often presented as diplomatic gifts to rulers of
neighboring lands to impress them with imperial power and sophistication.
What were the interiors of Byzantine palaces like?
Contemporary visitors to Byzantine palaces described interiors with mosaic and marble walls, marble floors, elegant textile decorations, and people eating not with their fingers but with forks (an unheard-of custom in Europe, where forks were not introduced until the fifteenth century). Unfortunately only the descriptions remain because Byzantine secular architecture has been almost entirely destroyed.
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