Mosaics in the Medieval World

In this book Liz James offers a comprehensive history of wall mosaics produced in the European and Islamic middle ages. Taking into account a wide range of issues including style and iconography technique and material and function and patronage she examines mosaics within their historical context. She asks why the mosaic was such a popular medium and considers how mosaics work as historical ''documents'' that tell us about attitudes and beliefs in the medieval world. The book is divided into two part. Part I explores the technical aspects of mosaics including glass production labour and materials and costs. In Part II James provides a chronological history of mosaics charting the low and high points of mosaic art up until its abrupt end in the late middle ages. Written in a clear and engaging style her book will serve as an essential resource for scholars and students of medieval mosaics.