Question

What evidence does this mosaic provide about the political relationship between zoe and her husband what does it suggest about the relationship between church and state in byzantium and about ways religion might be used to bolster political power?

Answer 1

For the first question, it proposes an equal relationship. Each wears a crown, the inscription above each head is identical, and each holds in their hands keys to the kingdom. She a scroll signifying knowledge, he on the other has a bag signifying wealth. 

For the second question, the church is chief to all decisions of the state. One can boost political power by saying that the choices regarding wealth and knowledge are done with the church in the lead, hence the choices of the state come with God’s blessing.