Comparative Analysis of the Symbol of Power In a comparative analysis of the two styles of Roman mosaics, it is evident that there exists a clear evolution in the depiction of power as symbolized in the mosaics of many gods depicted in the Early Roman Empire versus the depictions of Christ in Late Roman Empire mosaics. Since the mosaics were actually physically attached to the ground, early polytheistic creations give the images a strong connection to the earth. The gods were portrayed as existing in the same environment as humans, as opposed to mosaics constructed on ceilings, which would create an aura of superiority accompanying the image. Though the figures were given symbols of power, they were powerful in the real world, with a connection to the earth and therefore a stronger unity with the people. They could actually relate to a greater extent with the Roman civilians who idolized them. This is also apparent in the images of Neptune in which he is placed in a sea environment. Rather than connecting him to an other-worldly scene, he is portrayed in the real world, in an environment that is part of the human existence. His power stems from the apparent ability to dominate over the powerful ocean, rather than simply exist in a heavenly context looking down on the tempestuous sea. Conversely, because the later Christian representations were physically distanced from the ground and placed in a sort of sky setting in which one must look toward the sky to even view the art, a strong attachment and connection to the heavens is created. Christ was portrayed as existing above the world of humans, in a totally different, finer environment. Indeed a significant aura of superiority is created with these visual tools. The figure of God is given symbols of power, including gold, jewelry, and a halo. This creates the effect of giving him power not only in the real world, but in the heavenly setting as well. It separates him from the common people to a significant degree, though the occasional connection with the common people is resolved through his somewhat drab clothing.