The artwork, titled “Beth Alfa Synagogue Mosaic,” was created by Byzantine artisans around the year 527. As a mosaic, it exemplifies the intricate artistry of the Early Byzantine period (c. 330–750). This piece belongs to the genre of genre painting, capturing everyday life scenes, and is part of a series of mosaics found in the Beth Alpha synagogue in Beit She’an, Israel. This historical artwork is housed within the same synagogue in Beit She’an, adding to its cultural and architectural significance.
The artwork itself is a detailed mosaic, showcasing the quintessential Byzantine style of the Early Byzantine era. Composed of numerous small tesserae, the earthy tones and precise arrangement depict various patterns and images integral to the synagogue’s decorative scheme. The artistry not only highlights the aesthetic values of the time but also reflects the religious and communal life of the Jewish community in Byzantine-era Beit She’an.
