Problem: Art, politics and identity: The works of art and architecture examined during weeks 5 and 6 often held an underlying political or social meaning that emphasized or redefined individual or group identities. In some instances, artists appropriated earlier styles that gave their works an historic pedigree. At other times artists broke with existing traditions to create something innovative and new. Discuss how artists and/or architects embraced or reacted against the art of earlier periods to create or restate political or social identities. Use five (5) specific and dated examples of works of art or architecture that support your discussion. These examples should be drawn from at least 3 different cultures or periods that we studied in weeks 5 and 6.
I added art below; please add the sources you used to answer the question above
1) Head of a Republican priest, ca. 50-30 bce. Marble, 19 2 580 high (without modern bust). Musei Vaticani, Rome
2) Denarius with portrait of Julius Caesar, 44 bce. Silver, diameter 340. American Numismatic Society, New York.
3) Sarcophagus with philosopher, orant, and Old and New Testament scenes, ca. 270. Marble, 19 11140 × 79 20. Santa Maria Antiqua, Rome.
4) Suicide of Judas and Crucifixion of Christ, plaque from a box, early fifth century. Ivory, 30 × 3 780. British Museum, London.
5) Theodora and attendants, mosaic on the south wall of the apse, San Vitale, Ravenna, Italy, ca. 547.