Christian religion was very much at the heart of Byzantine culture, politically, socially and artistically. It was an empire run as a theocracy, ruled by God working through the Emperor, and political ideals were largely informed by Christian values. This permeated visual culture as well, not only in terms of art that was explicitly religious in its purpose. With Christian religion becoming the primary religion across the Byzantine Empire, Christian iconography became an extremely popular decorative motif displayed on many smaller decorative items and wares. Byzantine rings, like this fine example, were often engraved with religious images and served as personal, miniature icons. Typical representations included the Corpus Christi, archangels, saints, and the Virgin Mary with Child.
Saint Peter was one of the Twelve Apostles and the first pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Saint Paul, commonly known as Paul the Apostle, was once a devout Jew who persecuted Christians. He was called by Christ on the road to Damascus and became one of the greatest missionaries. They dedicated themselves in spreading the teachings of Jesus and helped establish the Christian church. Both of them were martyred in Rome during the reign of Nero. Saint Peter was crucified upside down in AD 64 and Saint Paul was beheaded between AD 64 and AD 67. In honour of the martyrdom of the two great apostles, the Catholic church celebrates the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul on the 29th of June.
To discover more about Byzantine jewellery, please visit our relevant blog post: The Byzantine Empire, Art and Christianity.
