Early Christian mosaics from the 4th to 14th centuries in Byzantium featured small pieces of glass, stone, or other materials, known as tesserae, often portraying religious themes and displaying a shift from realistic depiction to more symbolic imagery
Ravenna, Italy, became a center for exquisite early Christian mosaic art under Byzantine influence, with notable sites like the Basilica of San Vitale showcasing this form
In Greece, Thessaloniki's early Christian monuments like the Church of Hosios David and the Rotunda are celebrated for their early mosaic art, reflecting the city's importance in the Byzantine Empire
Archaeological discoveries unveiled early Byzantine mosaics in the Middle East, including the Madaba Map in Jordan and others in Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Israel, and Palestine
The Byzantine Iconoclasm (726-842 AD) greatly affected mosaic art, as religious images were destroyed, reducing the number of surviving Byzantine mosaics
Post-Byzantium, the Renaissance in Italy brought a shift in mosaic art, with artists like Raphael and Titian contributing designs, leading to a more painting-like approach in mosaics
St. Mark's Basilica in Venice displays the transition of mosaic art in the Renaissance, where it began to imitate painting, losing some of its traditional qualities
The 19th century saw a renewed interest in mosaics, with advancements in prefabrication and tessera material leading to widespread use in public and religious buildings
Modern artists like Marc Chagall explored mosaics, emphasizing texture and abstract compositions, reflecting a blend of traditional techniques and contemporary art expressions
In the 20th century, Mexico utilized mosaics extensively for decorating public buildings with historical and political themes, adapting the art form for large architectural surfaces