This website concentrates on the best sources in regard to the artworld for educational purposes.

Searched for 'coptic art' in whole database

Coptic art (300-900)

Christian Art, produced in the upper Nile valley of Egypt in the early Christian era or produced by the Coptic Christians themselves reaching its mature phase in the late 5th and 6th century.

Egypt and its art are in the Byzantine and early Islamic Period part of the Byzantine and then Arab empires. Christian art in Egypt was always very much influenced by Byzantine art; only after the Arab conquest of Egypt (AD 640-642) did this influence become less important.

Coptic art is known for its wall-paintings, textiles, illuminated manuscripts and metalwork, much of which survives in monasteries and churches. The artwork is often functional, as little distinction was drawn between artistry and craftsmanship, and includes tunics and tombstones as well as portraits of saints. Free standing sculpture is not common.

Coptic art displays a mix of native Egyptian and Hellenistic influences. Subjects and symbols were taken from both Greek and Egyptian mythology, sometimes altered to fit Christian beliefs. Persia and Syria also influenced Coptic art, though to a lesser extent, leaving images such as the peacock and the griffin. The motifs shown are often Christian, but pagan motifs were used as well; Christian art in other lands also regularly adapted pagan classical motifs to the message of the new faith.

Typical features of Coptic art are also found in Byzantine and 'late antique' (late Imperial Roman) art in general. Human figures are very often depicted frontal. Eyes are drawn wide. Figures appear out of proportion in comparison with classical Greek and Roman art.

---

Hereunder more results in important websites and collections:

---

Searchterm art is one of the most used words and is not always taken in consideration! First word is leading! Also try art coptic

---

Associated subjects: islamic art (+), early medieval art (+), ancient art (+), mycenaean art (+), mesopotamian art (+), polychrome style (+), animal style (+), egyptian art (+), minoan art (+), insular art (+), barbarian (+), migration period (+), monastic rites (+), early christian (+), ideas about death (+), crucifixion (+), saintly deaths (+), the virgin (+), artistic imagery (+), constantinople (+), greco-roman (+), personal prayers (+), icons (+), swaddled infant (+), illuminated manuscripts (+), relics (+), celts (+), ottoman empire (+), liturgical objects (+), celtic art (+)

---

1 - 2 - next