Ravenna, Basilica di Sant'Apollinare in Classe, Mosaico absidale, particolare

Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, wall mosaic decoration of the apse. It is divided into two parts: in the upper one there is a large clipeus framing a starry sky with a jewelled cross and the face of Christ, above it appears the Hand of God and on the sides are depicted Moses and Elijah. The three lambs depicted under the two prophets symbolize the saints Peter, James and John, alluding to the Transfiguration of Jesus on Mount Tabor. In the lower one there is a green valley with rocks, plants, birds and the figure of St. Apollinaris in the center. He's depicted in the act of praying for the faithful symbolized by twelve lambs.