Byzantines Collection

Arabian-Byzantine coin. Coin. FRANCE. Paris. National Library

Leo IIIs victory over the Saracens at Constantinople, 717 AD, illustration from Hutchinsons History of the Nations
STC358091 Leo IIIs victory over the Saracens at Constantinople, 717 AD, illustration from Hutchinsons History of the Nations, 1915 (litho) by Dudley

The Byzantines using Greek fire against an attacking Arab fleet (engraving)
3647182 The Byzantines using Greek fire against an attacking Arab fleet (engraving) by German School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info)

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

The Visigothic King Suintila (d. 634 d. C. ) expels the Byzantines from the Peninsula
The Visigothic King Suintila (d. 634 d.C.) expels the Byzantines from the Peninsula, engraving from a Painting by Jeronimo Alonso Gil

Byzantine besieging Messina, miniature in Scylitzes Matritensis, (facsimile edition of the original manuscript of the 11th century)

Lighthouse of Alexandria, Philips Galle, Hadrianus Junius, 1572

Constantinople, 15th c. Miniature Painting. SPAIN. Madrid. National Library

BYZANTINES / 800-1000
L-R: A Man of Rank, Basilius (886), an Empress, an Emperor and Basilius II (1025)

BYZANTINES / 300-700
L-R: Bishop Maximianus, Justinian, Priest, Phocas (610) and Justinian II (711)

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The Byzantines, a fascinating civilization that left an indelible mark on history. From their intricate coinage to their military triumphs, they captivated the world with their rich culture and strategic prowess. One such example is the Arabian-Byzantine coin found in France's capital city, Paris. This artifact serves as a reminder of the trade connections between these two great empires. Leo III's victory over the Saracens at Constantinople in 717 AD stands as a testament to Byzantine resilience against invading forces. Illustrated in Hutchinson's History of Nations, this lithograph captures the momentous event that shaped Byzantium's destiny. Greek fire, a fearsome weapon employed by the Byzantines against Arab fleets, is depicted vividly in an engraving from Madrid Skylitzes. The mastery of this incendiary substance helped defend Constantinople and solidify their naval supremacy. However, not all encounters ended favorably for the Byzantines. The Visigothic King Suintila expelled them from the Iberian Peninsula, showcasing both territorial struggles and shifting power dynamics during that era. Intrigue and conflict were not limited to land battles alone; Roger de Flor and his almogavars met their demise at the hands of Byzantine forces in 1305. A drawing from 1920 immortalizes this eventful encounter. Besieging Messina was another endeavor undertaken by these formidable warriors. A miniature painting in Scylitzes Matritensis provides us with a glimpse into this historical episode where strategy played a crucial role. Beyond warfare, architectural marvels like the Lighthouse of Alexandria symbolize Byzantium's grandeur and engineering prowess throughout its vast empire. Miniature paintings from 15th-century Spain depict Constantinople bustling with life—a vibrant city bridging Europe and Asia—showcasing its cultural significance beyond its political might.