Ethiopian art

"The art of the Christian kingdom of Ethiopia is characterized by beautiful metalwork crosses, illuminated manuscripts, and painted icons that were used in the rituals of the church." "Historically, Ethiopia was a Christian kingdom with strong ties in both trade and religion to the cultures located around the Mediterranean. Their Christian tradition dates back to the fourth century, when the king of the Aksumite kingdom converted to Christianity. By the fifteenth century, the African nation had developed a tradition of icon-painting that rivaled the Orthodox empires of Byzantium and Russia, as well as the famed panel painting of Renaissance Italy. Despite these influences, the craftsmen of Ethiopia created a strong artistic culture of their own that encompassed a wide range of styles while maintaining a unique vision." "The collection of Ethiopian art at the Walters Art Museum is now the largest outside of Ethiopia itself. This collection is exhibited with those of Byzantium and Russia in a permanent gallery devoted to the art of the Orthodox world. This book celebrates Ethiopian art and reveals a vibrant world or color, ritual, and spirituality."--BOOK JACKET.