The underlying pattern to patterns
A comprehensive research of the underlying philosophy of designing patterns during the Byzantine era carried out by comparing 6 case studies in Ravenna
M.E. Salters (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
E. Korthals Altes – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
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Abstract
Patterns in the universe have been proven enormously important. Moreover, it has been observed to be a method of survival by many organisms in nature. Later, people used this knowledge for ornamental and decorative purposes. It was extensively employed during the Byzantine era to aesthetically support, enhance, or incorporate mosaic scenes and images. However, by adorning structural parts, patterns were also utilised to dematerialize the architecture and conceal the functional from the aesthetical. The majority of patterns were used for delineating content and correspond to the horror vacuii concept; the fear of emptiness. Due to Ravenna's significance at the time, the research focuses on six case studies in Ravenna. The patterns confirm their importance as a result of the repetition with multiple variations in different locations.