The artwork, titled “The Apostle Paul (detail),” is attributed to the Byzantine Mosaics and dates to approximately 1030. Crafted using the mosaic technique, it belongs to the Macedonian Renaissance (867–1056) and Middle Byzantine (c. 850–1204) art movements. This religious painting is part of a series located in Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv, Ukraine.
In this particular depiction of the Apostle Paul, the artwork masterfully employs small, vibrantly colored tiles to create a lifelike and expressive portrait. The Apostle is rendered with a solemn expression, marked by a full beard, and gazes forward with piercing eyes filled with contemplative insight. A golden halo, a traditional symbol of holiness, encircles his head, emphasizing his sanctified status. He is depicted holding a red and gold-bound book, presumably the Scriptures, signifying his contributions to the New Testament. The background is adorned with intricate gold tiles, brilliantly highlighting the Apostle, and demonstrating the meticulous craftsmanship characteristic of Byzantine mosaics. The overall composition communicates a sense of spiritual gravitas and reverence, befitting the religious significance of its subject.