Discuss how the "union of the political and spiritual spheres" is demonstrated in the two San Vitale mosaics'one depicting Justinian, the other depicting Theodora.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The ideal answer should include:
- The mosaic featuring Justinian and Theodora portrays them as both earthly rulers and "saintly," implying the union of politics and divinity.
- Justinian and Theodora are pictured as political leaders, followed by their retinue of courtiers, in the midst of religious observation and practice (the Eucharist).
- Justinian wears the markers of kingship, including a crown (and guards flanking Justinian hold a shield with the chi rho symbol, implying a connection to the military power of Justinian's military aligned with God and references the vision of Constantine).
- Likewise Theodora is shown wearing a crown and royal robes.
- Justinian is shown with a halo and holds a paten/plate for the bread of the Eucharist.
- Theodora is also shown with a halo, the Eucharistic chalice, and joined by the Three Magi from the story of Jesus' birth, who like her bring gifts to Virgin and Child.