| Summary: | This article examines the mosaic images in the apse and tympana of Hagia Sophia that have been attributed to the reigns of the emperors Basil I (867-886) and Leo VI (886-912). In the past, scholars have discussed these images through the lens of theological and political developments of the period. Several unusual aspects of the program, the choice of images, the body language of the figures, and the specific orientation of the images vis-à-vis liturgical and imperial ceremonies and rites have not been given sufficient attention. An examination of the apse and tympana programs shows that probably both were planned together to reflect the functional needs of the congregation that worshipped in Hagia Sophia.
|
|---|