History and the study of art history have led to the exploration of many different works of art. Gardner's Art Through The Ages features many of these pieces and has educated countless numbers of people through the exposure of different techniques, defining specific cultures, societies and political influences. Personally, the type of art I will cover in this article, Christian Mosaic Art, has become one of my favorites and I find it very interesting. Mosaic art is incredible as it shows immense coordination and detail on whatever surface is available. This article will aim to critically consider the iconography of three important works of art. These pieces have changed many cultures over time, influencing them socially, politically and religiously. However, before diving into the three works of art, it is important to understand the purpose of a mosaic and the uses they would have had during their time. A mosaic, according to Webster's Dictionary, is “a surface decoration made by inlaying small pieces of variously colored material to form images or patterns; also: the process of making it. Originally, while other methods were also used, mosaics were created as economical, low-cost and durable floors. It was quickly discovered how to create patterns using different stone shapes and colors effectively. This process of mosaic development and evolution continued to intensify to the point where a much higher level of sophistication was required to master the correct technique. In the 4th century, the requirement was introduced that mosaics were no longer simple patterns, but rather transformed into actual paintings with great detail and tapestries. Even further, ear... half of the paper... essence of the reference, as Jesus states: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep... I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. (Holy Bible, NLT, page 918).” Jesus is shown holding a cross as he sits among his sheep, clearly signifying that he is Christ. Great significance for the placement of the artwork is also revealed by the knowledge that the Galla Placidia was built just a century after the introduction of Christianity. This being the case, anyone who entered the chapel, and specifically the "Christ the Good Shepherd", would have experienced its great significance due to the boldness it had at the time and the specific, and well-known, meaning of Christ as a good shepherd.