Barberini Ivory
(Justinian as World Conqueror)
Constantinople, Turkey
Byzantium
(Justinian as World Conqueror)
Constantinople, Turkey
Byzantium
During his reign, Justinian proclaimed Christianity as the Empire’s only lawful religion, specifically the Orthodox Christian doctrine. Justinian was exceedingly committed to stamping out the few surviving polytheistic cults and destroying all those who professed any Christian doctrine other than the Orthodox. A masterwork of political and religious art that conveys this undertaking is the ivory plaque known today as the Barberini Ivory. The panel shows Justininan in the center riding triumphantly on a rearing horse, while a startled, half-hidden barbarian recoils in fear behind him. Barbarians are seen at the bottom of the plaque bearing tribute and seeking mercy. Christ is seen above Justinian, blessing him with a gesture of his right hand which indicates approval of the emperor’s rule. This piece is meant to persuade subjects to honor and revere Justinian. It sends a clear message to the viewer that pronounces his power, and can be taken as a warning to any who might subscribe to anything other than Orthodox Christianity.
The job of a graphic designer is to achieve this exact this result; to create propaganda or visuals that successfully deliver information, messages and ideas to a person, group or movement in an attempt to persuade the viewer to behave in a certain way or purchase a product. An strong example of modern propaganda in graphic design is the anti-Sarah Palin poster from the "A Frightening Prospect" project below. The designer clearly holds a strong belief that Sarah Palin is a threat to the United States and persuades the viewer NOT to vote for her by portraying her as quite terrifying and almost rabid-looking, just as the Barberini Ivory artist portrayed Justinian as revered, powerful, and not to be disobeyed.
The job of a graphic designer is to achieve this exact this result; to create propaganda or visuals that successfully deliver information, messages and ideas to a person, group or movement in an attempt to persuade the viewer to behave in a certain way or purchase a product. An strong example of modern propaganda in graphic design is the anti-Sarah Palin poster from the "A Frightening Prospect" project below. The designer clearly holds a strong belief that Sarah Palin is a threat to the United States and persuades the viewer NOT to vote for her by portraying her as quite terrifying and almost rabid-looking, just as the Barberini Ivory artist portrayed Justinian as revered, powerful, and not to be disobeyed.