Byzantium

Byzantium, the Roman Empire in the eastern Mediterranean, dominated the political and religious face of Europe for over a thousand years, from its foundation in AD 330 to its capture by the Ottoman Turks in 1453. Many of the outstanding events, and the personalities behind them, are reflected in the art of the period. Drawing on the collections at the British Museum, this is an introduction to that Byzantine art, with illustrations of Byzantine silver, ivories, jewellery and icons. Pieces from the Empire's neighbours and enemies in Persia, Asia Minor and western Europe are also included.