Compare and contrast the architecture and the decoration of San Vitale, Ravenna

Question

Compare and contrast the architecture and the decoration of San Vitale, Ravenna and the Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem, in terms of architecture, function, and context. Your answer should concentrate on the time that these buildings were constructed (i.e. the 6th and 7th centuries). What is similar about the two buildings? What is different? What historical issues can account for these similarities and differences? What do these buildings suggest about the development of Byzantine and Islamic architecture as a whole?

Explanation / Answer

Dome of the rock in Jerusalem is of great significance to the Byzantine architecture and San Vitale, Ravenna plays an important significance in the Islamic constructions. Both of the structures, along with representing prime the place of worship, also represent growth as well as achievements in that era.

San vitale was started in 6th century, I.e. 524, under Bishop Ecclesius, to emphasise emperor Justinian's achievements. This structure was sponsored by Julius Argentarius. The Dome of the rock was built in 692 and was made on the Temple Mount, and the purpose was to show the influence of Islam over Jerusalem and how Islam was involved in building Christian and Jewish supremacy. Both the structures showed confidence of the cultures that they were built under.

San vitale is brick and marble and mosaic built with octagonal ground organisation and a central dome. The Dome is composed of wooden structure with mosaic interior and a similar central idea with octagonal plan. Both the structures have ambulatory as well as columns and alternating piers. Mosaic techniques are same. Images are created using different coloured small tiles. There is an atrium in the courtyard in front and entrance with a tower.

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