History of Early Ohristian Art. By the Rev. E. L.
Cutts. (S.P.C.K.)—This is a thoughtful and thorough study of early Christian emblems and ornaments, and helps us to realise much that seems anomalous and semi-pagan about religious decorations. Early Christian converts had, of course, no artistic notions beyond those of pagan art, which had necessarily to be adapted to their
new religion. One emblem they had, the most despised of all, which they were to make the most universally revered.
They made the sign of the Cross on all possible occasions, and figured it everywhere. Pagan burial customs, in all their cere- monial, descended entirely to the builders of the catacombs, and so we find the sepulchral art of the early Christians the most striking of all. They were practically denied any other expression of their sentiment. On the whole, they took what was best and noblest of pagan ideals. The architecture, because, as Mr. Cutts
says, the converts worshipped in the upper rooms of wealthy con- verts, early assumed a dignity, hence also the mosaics which form
the finest remains of Early Christian Art. Mr. Cutts's book is good reading ; it is very moderate in tone, clear and full of thoughtful suggestion and explanation. Those who read it will appreciate the efforts made to suggest explanations of many puzzling paintings and frescoes of biblical inspiration.
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