Anthemius of Tralles
Anthemius of Tralles was a notable figure in the 6th century, recognized for his contributions as an architect and mathematician. Born into a family of intellectuals, with relatives who were physicians, a lawyer, and a professor, Anthemius himself became esteemed for his expertise in mechanics and architecture. He collaborated with Isidore of Miletus on the ambitious reconstruction of the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople after it was damaged by fire during the Nika Riots in 532 CE. This magnificent church, completed in 537 CE, is celebrated for its innovative design, particularly its large ellipsoid dome and dramatic use of light, showcasing Anthemius's engineering prowess.
Anthemius was known not only for his architectural skills but also for his peculiar sense of humor, as noted by contemporary historians. Beyond his work on Hagia Sophia, he contributed to fields such as irrigation and fortification, reflecting a broad interest in practical applications of science and engineering. He authored two theoretical works that addressed burning mirrors and mechanical devices, which further highlight his scholarly interests. Although he is believed to have died around 534 CE, his legacy endures through his influential designs and writings, marking him as a key figure in the history of architecture and engineering.
Anthemius of Tralles
Related civilization: Byzantine Empire
Major role/position: Architect, mathematician
Life
Anthemius of Tralles (an-THEE-mee-uhs of TRAL-eez) was born into a highly educated family. His father, Stephanus, and his two brothers, Dioscorus and Alexander, were physicians; his third brother, Olympius, was a lawyer; and the fourth, Metrodorus, was a professor of literature. Anthemius himself became famous as a skilled mechanicus, a profession that can be properly described as an architect with a strong theoretical background in mathematics. According to the contemporary historians Procopius (fl. sixth c.e.) and Agathias (c. 536-c. 580 c.e.), in addition to being a knowledgeable designer and builder, Anthemius was known as a peculiar individual who enjoyed performing bizarre practical jokes.
Anthemius was employed by Emperor Justinian I (r. 527-565 c.e.) to work with Isidoros of Miletus on the rebuilding of the Haghia Sophia church in Constantinople (Istanbul, Turkey). The original building was heavily damaged by fire in 532 c.e. during the Nika Riots. The newly built structure became an architectural wonder celebrated for its monumental dimensions, ellipsoid dome, and masterful interior light effects. Many dramatic reports exist about difficulties encountered during its construction. Reportedly, the emperor himself was concerned about the complexity of the design, and on two occasions, his technical solutions saved the structure from collapsing. The church was completed and dedicated in December 27, 537 c.e. Anthemius is traditionally believed to have died in 534 c.e. before the church’s completion; however, this date is disputed. He certainly died before 558 c.e., when the dome crashed after a series of earthquakes. It was later replaced with a modified version of the original design.
Influence
In addition to his architectural work, Anthemius was consulted in regard to issues of irrigation and fortification. He also wrote two partially preserved theoretical studies: Peri pyreion (sixth century c.e.; on burning mirrors) and Peri paradoxon mechanematon (c. 534; concerning remarkable mechanical devices).
Bibliography
Huxley, G. L. Anthemius of Tralles: A Study in Later Greek Geometry. Greek, Roman, and Byzantine Monographs 1. Cambridge, Mass.: Cambridge, 1959.
Mango, Cyril. The Art of the Byzantine Empire, 312-1453: Sources and Documents. Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 1997.