The artwork, titled “Mosaic of Emperor Alexandros,” was created by Byzantine Mosaics around the year 913. It is a mosaic portrait from the Middle Byzantine period, specifically the Macedonian Renaissance era. This piece is part of a series located in the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey.
The artwork depicts Emperor Alexandros adorned in intricate, jewel-like robes, rendered in a traditional Byzantine mosaic style characterized by the use of small, colored tiles to create a detailed and vibrant image. The emperor’s facial expression is solemn, emphasizing his regal presence. Surrounding him are Greek inscriptions and ornamental symbols, enhancing the grandeur and religious significance of the piece. The mosaic’s background utilizes a golden hue, common in Byzantine art, which signifies divinity and the heavenly realm.