C olors, natural elements, animals, plants, all show symbolism. For instance, palms represent martyrdom, and grapevines represent the Eucharist. A ll these elements allow for the recognition of scenes within a representation system which is more concerned about the value of elements than about reality and resemblances. This explains why, even if they are evidently related, they show clear differences. Particularly, the last one is more natural.
T o see more illustrations it is convenient to visit the following pages.
The first image is a courtesy of Paul Halsall from the Byzantine Net . The second one from Plamen Bliznakov in the Republic of Macedonia.