Description
Book Synopsis: The first exploration of the artistic and cultural intersections of the African continent and the Byzantine world Medieval art history has long emphasized the glories of the Byzantine Empire, but less known are the profound artistic contributions of Nubia, Egypt, Ethiopia, and other powerful African kingdoms whose pivotal interactions with Byzantium had an indelible impact on the medieval Mediterranean world. Bringing together more than 170 masterworks in a range of media and techniques—from mosaic, sculpture, pottery, and metalwork to luxury objects, panel paintings, and religious manuscripts—Africa and Byzantium recounts Africa’s centrality in transcontinental networks of trade and cultural exchange. With incisive scholarship and new photography of works rarely or never before seen in public, this long-overdue publication sheds new light on the staggering artistic achievements of late antique Africa. It reconsiders the continent’s contributions to the development of the premodern world and offers a more complete history of Africa as a vibrant, multiethnic society of diverse languages and faiths that played a crucial role in the artistic, economic, and cultural life of Byzantium and beyond.
Published by The Metropolitan Museum of Art/Distributed by Yale University Press
Exhibition Schedule:
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (November 19, 2023–March 3, 2024)
- The Cleveland Museum of Art (April 14–July 21, 2024)
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Discover the hidden artistic treasures of the African continent and the Byzantine world with "Africa and Byzantium: The Untold Artistic Legacy." Delve into the enchanting world of medieval art history, where the immense contributions of Nubia, Egypt, Ethiopia, and other powerful African kingdoms are unveiled, leaving an indelible mark on the medieval Mediterranean.
Experience the glory of over 170 remarkable masterworks, including stunning mosaics, exquisite sculptures, ornate pottery, and mesmerizing metalwork. Immerse yourself in the beauty of luxury objects, panel paintings, and religious manuscripts, as you embark on a journey that recounts Africa's pivotal role in the transcontinental networks of trade and cultural exchange.
Through the eyes of incisive scholarship and breathtaking photography, witness the long-overdue recognition of Africa's artistic achievements. This groundbreaking publication provides a fresh perspective on the continent's profound influence on the premodern world. Africa emerges as a vibrant, multicultural society, where languages and faiths intertwine, shaping the artistic, economic, and cultural fabric of Byzantium and beyond.
Experience the unparalleled legacy of Africa and Byzantium through the immersive pages of this publication, brought to you by The Metropolitan Museum of Art in collaboration with Yale University Press. As the pages unfold, prepare to be captivated by the remarkable artistic tapestry that spans from ancient civilizations to the present day. Expand your horizons and embrace the rich history that has remained shrouded for far too long.
Don't miss out on this extraordinary exhibition, coming to The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York from November 19, 2023, to March 3, 2024, followed by The Cleveland Museum of Art from April 14 to July 21, 2024. Mark your calendars and be part of this monumental moment in art history. Experience the vibrant cultural crossroads between Africa and Byzantium firsthand.
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