What was the symbolic importance of the mosaic over the southwest entryway to Hagia Sophia that depicted Constantine presenting models of Constantinople and Hagia Sophia itself to the Virgin Mary and Jesus?
A) It showed the new imperial state's dominance over the church.
B) It showed the role of spectacle in Byzantine life.
C) It represented the growing together of Christian and imperial culture.
D) It represented the dominance of the church over the state.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mosaic depicting Constantine presenting models of Constantinople and Hagia Sophia to the Virgin Mary and Jesus represents the growing together of Christian and imperial culture. It signifies the importance of Christianity to the imperial state and highlights the role of Christianity in shaping the development of the new capital city, Constantinople. It does not represent the dominance of either the state or the church over the other.

What Was the Symbolic Importance of the Mosaic Over the Southwest