what does the photograph above show? describe any known history of info you recall about this structure/piece of art?

Answer:
The photograph shows the Basilica of San Vitale, one of the last surviving examples of the Early Byzantine art.
Explanation:
The Basilica of San Vitale belongs to the Early Byzantine. This art is a mixture of the Roman architecture, and the Byzantine style. Such a combination is perceived in predominantly octagonal shape and the dome (segments of Roman culture); narrow bricks and especially mosaics (characteristics of the eastern part). It is considered one of the main buildings with Byzantine features, due to its large number of mosaics - some very famous. Most of them represent excerpts of stories from the holy bible, and it is considered the building that has the largest and most preserved mosaics outside Constantinople.