Early European and Colonial American Art, 200–1750 CE

It completely rejects all Roman artistic conventions in favor of new Christian forms.

It uses a similar Pompeiian style for frescoes but adapts the subject matter to Christian themes.

It primarily imitates Greek sculpture rather than Roman painting techniques.

It focuses on mosaic work, a technique not commonly used in Roman art.

A Romanesque cathedral

A Gothic church

An early Christian basilica

A Byzantine palace

A large-scale mosaic

An illuminated manuscript

A fresco cycle

A carved sarcophagus

It represents the wealth and power of the Roman Empire.

It symbolizes the Christian idea of inner spiritual beauty versus outward appearances.

It reflects the different social classes that attended the church.

It is a result of later renovations and additions to the building.

Pointillism and impasto

Contrapposto, foreshortening, and shading

Cubism and collage

Linear perspective and sfumato

Its extensive use of stained glass windows

The combination of a basilica plan with a dome

Its towering spires and flying buttresses

The use of concrete vaulting

A Roman bathhouse for public use.

A place of burial and worship for early Christians.

A military storage facility for the Roman army.

A residential complex for wealthy Roman citizens.

Eagles

Lions

Doves, peacocks, and pheasants

Wolves

Flying buttresses and pointed arches

A long nave, apse, and aisles

A central dome supported by pendentives

Elaborate sculptural programs on the facade

Pagan rituals to monotheistic practices.

Imperial power to spiritual themes.

Naturalistic representation to abstract symbolism.

Personal expression to communal identity.