Keystone from an Arch with Cross and Acanthus Leaves

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 301

The more important buildings were decorated with courses of sculpted stone freely combining floral and geometric motifs inspired by classical art – rosettes, acanthus leaves, meander patterns – with more recent Christian themes. These sculptural elements, demonstrating the Byzantine love of complex patterning with lush textures, were originally painted in rich, vibrant colors like those surviving in textiles.

Keystone from an Arch with Cross and Acanthus Leaves, Limestone; carved in relief

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Keystone from an Arch with Cross and Acanthus Leaves, Limestone; carved in relief
Keystone from an Arch with Cross and Acanthus Leaves, Limestone; carved in relief
Keystone from an Arch with Cross and Acanthus Leaves, Limestone; carved in relief

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