The artwork titled “Petra Church Floor Mosaic” is a creation attributed to Byzantine Mosaics, dating approximately from 450 to 550 CE. Executed in the medium of mosaïque, it falls within the Early Byzantine art movement, which spanned from circa 330 to 750 CE. This particular piece belongs to the genre of animal painting and is part of a series found in a Byzantine church located in Petra, Jordan.
The artwork is an intricate floor mosaic depicting two deer, rendered with meticulous attention to detail typical of Byzantine craftsmanship. The animals are enclosed within circular frames, composed of small, carefully arranged tesserae that form their contours and textured fur. The mosaic showcases a sophisticated use of color gradients to create a sense of depth and realism in the depiction of the deer, which are depicted in a noble and serene stance. The background consists of earthy tones, enhancing the naturalistic representation of the animals, and is framed by decorative patterns that highlight the geometric precision characteristic of Early Byzantine mosaics.
