How to Teach Children to Make Byzantine Mosaics
A study of mosaic art is a study of world history. Some of the earliest examples of mosaics date back more than 4,000 years. Art was influenced by the mix of cultures as empires rose and fell. Byzantine mosaics represent the period of history during which Christendom survived the division of the Roman Empire, and the influence of Greek, Roman and Persian craftsmen combined in great tile artworks of Christian icons that covered cathedral walls and ceilings in what is now Turkey. Enhance world history studies with an art activity that allows students an opportunity to create their own mosaic.
Things You'll Need
- Images of ancient mosaics
- Reference materials
- Plastic trays
- Plaster of Paris
- Bucket
- Long-handled spoon
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Large paper clips
- Duct tape
- Craft glass tiles
- Glass beads
- Towel or newspapers
Instructions
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Background
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Locate examples of different types of mosaics to show students, and prepare a slideshow with special emphasis on the Byzantine period.
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2
Compare and contrast Byzantine mosaics with earlier types including Greek and Roman. Include descriptions of materials that were used for each type. Discuss which types of mosaics were commonly found on floors, and which were created on walls and ceilings.
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Discuss how mosaic artwork was influenced by various cultures. Include which types were primarily intricate patterns and designs, which were depictions of mythology and which were iconic.
Mosaic
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4
Pull apart a large paperclip so that it forms an "L" shape. Secure one end of the paperclip to the inside bottom of the tray with duct tape, taping it 2 inches from the side of the tray which will be the top of the plaque. This will be used to hang the plaque once it is dry. The part of the paperclip that is under the tape will remain free from the plaster of Paris, and the part sticking up will be embedded into the plaque.
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Spray the inside of the tray and duct tape with non-stick cooking spray.
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Mix the plaster of Paris in the bucket using a long-handled spoon. Follow the package instructions -- an adult should do this. Continue mixing until it has the consistency of pancake batter.
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Pour plaster of Paris into the tray to a depth of 2 inches. Allow the plaster of Paris to set for 10 minutes. Check for firmness by placing a tile in the mixture. If it begins to sink or the area around it is watery, wait 5 more minutes before trying again.
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Place glass tiles and beads onto the surface of the plaster of Paris, creating interesting designs, shapes, numbers or letters. Press them lightly to embed them into the mixture. Allow the plaque to set overnight.
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Turn the plaque face down onto a soft towel or stack of newspapers, and lightly tap the bottom of the tray to dislodge the plaque. Remember that the duct tape is holding the plague to the tray, so you may need to grasp the bottom of the plaque to pull it completely free. Once the plaque is free, remove the duct tape from the paper clip. Your mosaic plaque is now ready for display.
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Tips & Warnings
For perfect outlines, set cookie cutters on top of the plaster of Paris and fill them with tiles or glass beads. Carefully remove the cookie cutter after you have pressed your pieces into the plaster.
Reused plastic frozen dinner trays work well as molds for the plaques.
For colored plaster of Paris, add food coloring to the mix while stirring.
Handle the glass tiles carefully due to sharp edges.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images
