In these studies Gary Vikan has opened new perspectives on the daily life and material culture of Late Antiquity - more specifically, on icons and relics and on objects revealing of the world of pilgrimage, the early cult of saints and marriage. 'Dr Vikan ... has been an innovator in opening up fields of interest in Byzantine art, notably in pilgrimage and the history of the icon. His papers are full of important juxtapositions of objects and ideas... At a time when 'icon' has become the most over-used word in the English language, Dr Vikan offers a very refreshing set of 'ruminations'.' The Art Newspaper 'A must for all libraries with research collections on Christian art.' International Review of Biblical Studies 'These are the sorts of writings that can spark the interest of undergraduates, graduates, and mature scholars alike.' The Catholic Historical Review