In terms of their artistic style, how are figures in Byzantine artworks primarily represented?

In Byzantine artworks, figures are primarily represented in a manner that is flat, frontal, and stylized. This style reflects the spiritual and religious intent of Byzantine art, which sought to convey divine truths rather than to imitate nature realistically. The use of flatness in the figures emphasizes the otherworldly and transcendent qualities of the subjects, which are often saints or biblical figures. The frontal portrayal invites viewers to engage directly with the figures, creating a sense of immediate presence and connection.

Stylization in Byzantine art also includes the use of gold backgrounds and simplified forms, which further detach the figures from the physical world and highlight their spiritual importance. This artistic choice serves to elevate the subject matter above the mundane, reinforcing the theme of spirituality central to Byzantine religious ideology.