The artwork, “Isaiah and Mark Apostle,” is a mosaic created by Byzantine artists around the year 547. It is an example of Early Byzantine art, which is known for its religious themes and intricate designs. This particular piece belongs to the art movement known as Byzantine, specifically from the Early Byzantine period (circa 330-750). The medium of the artwork is mosaic, and it is part of a series located in the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy.
The artwork portrays religious figures with remarkable detail and rich color. Isaiah is depicted in the lower portion, standing with a halo around his head, holding a scroll, symbolizing his prophetic role. Above Isaiah, Mark the Apostle is shown seated with a lion, his traditional symbol, emphasizing his evangelistic efforts. The figures are surrounded by an elaborate border of geometric and floral patterns, characteristic of Byzantine mosaic work. The use of gold and subtle shading gives the composition a luminous and divine quality, typical of the religious art from this era.