What kind of figures are typically depicted in Byzantine art, emphasizing spirituality over naturalism?

Byzantine art is characterized by its focus on spirituality rather than a realistic representation of the human form. The figures are often represented in a stiff and symmetrical manner, which serves to convey a sense of divine presence and otherworldliness. This style reflects the spiritual goals of the art, as artists sought to create images that elevate the viewer's mind to the sacred and transcendental realms.

The use of rigid poses and formal proportions helps symbolize the eternal, unchanging nature of the divine and the heavenly rather than the temporal world. This emphasis on the spiritual aspect is often illustrated through the arrangement and positioning of the figures, which tend to be frontal and fixed, drawing attention to their spiritual significance rather than their individual personalities or movements. The flatness and lack of realistic depth also reinforce this spiritual focus, inviting contemplation of the sacred subjects rather than a mere aesthetic appreciation of the figures' physical representations.

In contrast, other artistic styles that prioritize dynamic or realistic portrayals do not align with the primary objectives of Byzantine art, which emphasizes the divine and spiritual connection over naturalistic representation.