Home > Arts > Artists > S > Spanish School
Greek fire, Fol. 34v from the Madrid Skylitzes (vellum)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Greek fire, Fol. 34v from the Madrid Skylitzes (vellum)
REV167117 Greek fire, Fol. 34v from the Madrid Skylitzes (vellum) by Byzantine School, (12th century); Biblioteca Nacional, Madrid, Spain; (add.info.: Greek fire was an incendiary weapon used by the Byzantine Empire. It was a flammable composition believed to have consisted of sulfur, naphtha, and quicklime; bronze tubes that emitted jets of liquid fire were mounted on the prows of their galleys and on the walls of Constantinople; Byzantines in 678 and 717-18 destroyed two Saracen fleets with Greek fire;
Codex Skylitzes Matritensis, Vitr. 26-2, Bild-Nr. 77, f 34 v. b
The Madrid Skylitzes, also known as the Codex Skylitzes Matritensis, is an illustrated illuminated manuscript of the Synopsis of Histories, by John Skylitzes (c.1040-after 1101) which covers the Byzantine Empire throughout the years 811-1057. The manuscript was produced in Sicily in the 12th century and is the only surviving illustrated manuscript of a Greek chronicle. ); out of copyright
Media ID 22605310
© Bridgeman Images
Byzantine Byzantines Flames Madrid Skylitzes
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> S
> Spanish School
> Europe
> Greece
> Related Images
> Europe
> Italy
> Sicily
> Related Images
> Europe
> Spain
> Related Images
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Byzantine School
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> James Gillray
> Fine Art Finder
> Manuscripts: Royal
> Historic
> Ancient civilizations
> Ancient Greece
> Greek history
> Historic
> Battles
> Related Images
> Historic
> Battles
> Siege and Fall of Constantinople
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable piece of history - Greek fire, an incendiary weapon used by the Byzantine Empire. Created by the Byzantine School in the 12th century, this vellum print is part of the Madrid Skylitzes collection held at Biblioteca Nacional in Madrid, Spain. Greek fire was a fearsome weapon that played a crucial role in defending Constantinople and defeating enemy fleets. It was composed of sulfur, naphtha, and quicklime, creating a highly flammable mixture. The Byzantines ingeniously mounted bronze tubes on their galleys' prows and city walls to emit jets of liquid fire towards their adversaries. The power and effectiveness of Greek fire are vividly depicted in this artwork from Codex Skylitzes Matritensis. The illustration captures the intensity and chaos as flames engulf enemy ships during two significant naval victories over Saracen fleets in 678 and 717-18. The Madrid Skylitzes is an illuminated manuscript that chronicles the history of the Byzantine Empire from 811 to 1057. This particular manuscript is unique as it is not only beautifully illustrated but also one of few surviving Greek chronicles from that era. As we gaze upon this image, we are transported back to an era where warfare relied on ingenuity and strategic prowess. It serves as a reminder of humanity's ability to adapt and create formidable weapons while showcasing the artistic talent prevalent during the Byzantine period.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
