Antique to Early Christian (in-person)

Step back in time to the civilisations of Ancient Greece and Rome, and discover the story of a momentous shift from Pagan to Christian belief, as told through the art and architecture of the ancient world from 500 BCE to 500 CE. From famous Homeric myths depicted in sculpture and vase painting, to the lavishly rich decorations and furnishings unearthed at Herculaneum and Pompeii: the ancient world was replete with art. Join us to gain a unique perspective on the classical tradition, and then venture into the afterlife of the ancient world. Learn what happened as the Roman Empire began to fragment and Christianity’s influence steadily grew; explore how painters, sculptors and masons re-interpreted classical themes, motifs and styles in developing Christian visual vocabularies. On this course, you’ll not only learn from expert lecturers, but you’ll also get exclusive access to a live emblema mosaic demonstration from artist Enikő Leanyvari, and get up close with objects in the V&A’s collections through expert-led gallery talks. This course runs every Tuesday for 10 weeks at V&A South Kensington, plus you'll get an extra 10 weeks to catch up with all your lecture recordings once the course ends. Not able to join us in person? You can also attend the course lectures online, both live and on catch up. Not ready to end your learning journey in 500 CE? Check out our 3-term year course, The Story of European Art at the V&A, 500 BCE - 1250. For more details on how our courses work, see V&A Academy online questions · V&A. This course is suitable for participants aged 18 and over.