*3 The Roman Empire, was the most powerful political and social structure in western civilization. With the empire growing so vastly and military leaders fighting to maintain control of the empire, the creation of the Tetrarchy was established, these series of events is also known as the Imperial Crisis. The Tetrarchy was supposed to be the perfect solution to maintaining order during this time period. Constantine XI, who was a part of the Tetrarchy rose to power after defeating his brother Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge and became the Emperor over the entire Roman Empire.
During his ruling, Constantine earned the title of “Great” for his strong belief in Jesus Christ and contribution in helping people to be …show more content…
They are displayed in Great Stair Hall which was finished just for these tapestries. *3 The area is very open and the presence of the twelve gigantic tapestries is so compelling, one could only imagine just how powerful Constantine was
As you enter into the museum at the east entrance and approach the center of the Great Stair Hall, you will find hanging from the tall ceiling a 220 lb metal mobile designed in 1964 by Alexander Calder. *4 Also at the center of the Great Stair Hall atop a beautiful set of railless stairs is the Goddess of the museum, which is named “Diana”. The Philadelphia Museum of Art assumed the piece in 1932, some years after the demolish of the Garden and has proudly displayed it ever since. *5
To get to the second floor where the Constantine Tapestries are displayed, you can either take the center floor stairs or ride the elevator. From the stairs, there are two sets of ascending/descending stairwells, one to the left and one to the right with each leading to the exhibition space on the balcony of the second floor. The elevator is located in the far left hand corner of the first floor. As you exit the elevator, you will see the tapestries of Constantine are eloquently displayed on the left, right and front side of the second floor …show more content…
Oddly, the plaques do not cite when the event happened, only the year the tapestry was woven. The missing dates can be easily overlooked once in front of the display because of the uniqueness and size of the display. The colors of the tapestries are mesmerizing. Although uniquely designed, all are made of wool and silk, woven with gold and silver threads. The entire display is a beautiful well put collection while the tapestries are not arranged in chronological