The Magi from the East



The Three Wise Men, named Balthasar, Melchior, and Gaspar. From a late 6th century mosaic at the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo in Ravenna, Italy.

Byzantine art usually depicts the Magi in Persian clothing which includes breeches, capes, and Phrygian caps. Mosaic, ca. 565. Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, Ravenna, Italy - restored above in 18th century.

Photo by Nina Aldin Thune.