The artwork entitled “Petra Church Floor Mosaic,” crafted by Byzantine Mosaics circa 450-550 CE, is a striking example of Early Byzantine art. Executed in the medium of mosaic, this piece forms part of a series found within a Byzantine church in Petra, Jordan, and belongs to the genre of animal painting.
The artwork prominently features interlocking circular motifs containing meticulously arranged tesserae that depict deer in a naturalistic manner. Each deer is rendered with attention to detail, reflecting the skill of Byzantine artisans in capturing the essence of animal forms through mosaic techniques. The circular frames, filled with geometric patterns and set against a neutral backdrop, enhance the symmetry and harmony of the composition. The overall effect is both ornamental and representational, showcasing the interplay between decorative art and figural representation characteristic of Early Byzantine mosaics.