What is a significant characteristic of art from the Byzantine period?

A significant characteristic of art from the Byzantine period is the emphasis on illuminated manuscripts as major artistic products. During this era, which flourished from the 4th to the 15th centuries, illuminated manuscripts—handwritten texts embellished with gold, silver, and colorful illustration—played a vital role in religious and cultural expression. The production of these texts was not only a significant artistic endeavor, but it also reflected the Byzantine focus on spirituality and the sacred, as many manuscripts contained religious texts, prayers, and hymns.

Illuminated manuscripts serve as a rich source of information about Byzantine art, showcasing unique iconography, intricate designs, and the use of rich colors and precious materials. They illustrate the Byzantine emphasis on the divine, moving away from naturalism toward a more stylized representation that conveys a sense of otherworldliness, which was central to their religious practice and artistic expression. This focus on manuscripts represents a departure from other periods of art that favored more naturalistic approaches, aligning more with religious themes, which were prominent throughout Byzantine culture.