Early Christian Influences
Early Jewish, Early Christian and Byzantine Art
Discuss the Roman influences on Early Christian sculpture. Look at the Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus and compare it with some of the attributes of Roman art.
-The Early christian architecture and tis decorations began to demonstrate increasing monumentality as a result of its dependence on Roman imperial traditions. This caused the early christian sculpture to be more impressive and a work of art that demonstrated this is a fine Early Christian stone coffin, the Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus. This richly carved sarcophagus was made for a Roman who had died in 359 at age 42 and who had been “newly baptized” as an inscription would tell us. The front of this was divided by columns into ten …show more content…
compartments, which contains scenes from the Hebrew Bible and the Christian one (New Testament). The upper register we see from left to right the Sacrifice of Issac, St. Peter Taken Prisoner, Christ Enthroned Between Sts. Peter and Paul, and Jesus before Pontuis Pilate. The lower register are the Suffering of Job, the Temptation of Adam and Eve. Jesus’ Entry into Jerusalem, Daniel in the Lion Den, and St. Paul led to His Martydom.
The depictions of Peter and Paul, the veritable official saints of the city of Rome in which each is commemorated by a major basilica in the city can be related to Junius Bassus’ role as a hight-ranking government official. The Top register where Christ is enthroned with his feet treading on a personification of Coleus, the Roman pagan god of the heavens, as he gives the law to his disciples. Throughout this stone coffin these depiction's have a deep meaning in them all and is all referenced to God. Also, on this sarcophagus the style relies on imperial convention. This is most evident n the elements of classicism that are expressed, rich are the placement within deep, space-filled niches of figures that recall the dignity of Greek and Roman sculpture.
Use an example from Early Christian and Byzantine art and discuss how artists used the narrative and the iconic imagery to convey the foundations of the Christian faith. What is the difference between the “Iconic” meaning from the “narrative” meaning in a work of art. What are the striking differences between the treatment of style and subjects in the two periods,
-An example of Early Christian art is the Catacomb of Santissimi Pietro e Marcellino, Rome, Italy which was created in the 4th century. On the ceiling of one of the more elaborate chambers in the catacomb is decorated in a style that was once formal and uncomplicated. Fixed boarders control the overall organization; a central medallion or circle contains the figure of a shepherd, who is flanked by sheep and carries a lamb across his shoulders. The circle is connected to four Lunettes and in the four corners are single figures with outstretched raised arms. This ceiling actually was consistent with the biblical phohbitition against image making, as specified in the 2cd commandment. Which this commandment christ is generally not represented in the catacombs except by metaphor. The figure of the shepherd was was flanked by sheep and is caring a lamb is a potent allusion to christ, Sense, in a number of biblical accounts Christ would refer himself as a Good Shepherd. Due to a concern for the well being of his flock and willing to sacrifice himself in order to guarantee the salvation of those who followed him. The Four Lunettes around the Good Shepherd forms a dedication to the Hebrew prophet Johan. Also, a principle of faith that Jonah spent three days in the belly of a great Whale, therefore christ is suppose to have spent three days in the tomb. This also can be seen from classical sources and the Good Shepherd himself is a reinder of pagan symbols of charity in the form of ancient sculptures of men carrying sacrificial animals on their shoulders.
-The narrative meaning of work of art is showing messages of comfort and to give us a sense of Early Christian art that was developed during the turmoil of Rome’s decline. This was a time of political, social, and economic instability. So
What are the distinguishing examples of basilicas and central-plan churches. Discuss the forms and how they were built to accommodate the needs of the people and their devotional practice.
Early Christian basilicas owe much of it's structure and features to Imperial Roman basilicas. One that shows a clear example of this is Old St. Peter's in Rome, which was replaced by the present St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. These basilicas have long naves, which is the central aisle in a basilica flanked by side aisles, that extends from the entrance, which was an atrium, to the apse or transept, and it is housed by a triangular, or trussed, roof. They were built this way to hold the many people who would come to proclaim their Christian status.
Central-plan structures were buildings in the round or polygonal shape, and were covered by a domed roof. These were structures that served as tombs or mausoleums, such as Santa Constanza, which was built in Rome for Constantine's daughter, Constantin. The building has a central space that is lit by clerestory windows. Above those are the dome, which is supported by 12 pairs of columns. Four is the arches are taller and suggest a cross within the circle. At the eastern, more elevated arch, was the sarcophagus. And around the whole building was an ambulatory, which is a ring-shaped aisle, covered by a barrel vault.
What is iconoclasm?
-After the time of Justinian which was the development of the Byzantine art was disrupted by the so-called Iconoclastic Controversy.
The conflict which began with an edict promulgated by the Byzantine emperor Leo III in 726 which prohibited religious images, raged for more then 100 years between too hostile groups. Iconoclasts or the image destroyers that were led by the emperor and supported mainly in the eastern provinces, insisted on a literal interpretation of the Biblical ban against the graven images because they led to idolatry. Their plan was to restrict religious art to abstract symbols and plant or animal …show more content…
form.
One the other side of this conflict was the Iconophiles which were led by the monks. They were particularly centered in the Western provinces and that was were the imperial edict remained ineffective for the most part. With these both sides the strongest argument was Neo-Platonic: Because Christ and his image were inseparable, the honor given to the image is transferred to him. This idea is almost still in effect today. Socially and politically, the conflict was a power struggle between church and state. The conflict came during a low point in the Byzantine power, when the Empire had been greatly reduced in size nu the rise of the Islam. Iconoclasm, it was argued, that justified by Leo’s victories over the Arabs and who themselves were Iconoclasts. This controversy caused an itteparable break between Catholicism and the Orthodox faith. Yet, these churches stayed united until the pope in 1054 excommunicated the EAstern patriarch for Heresy.
To summarize Iconoclasm is a doctrine of the christian church in the 8th and 9th centuries that forebade the worship or production of religious images. This doctrine led to the destruction of many works of art. The iconoclastic controversy over the validity of this doctrine led to a division of the church.
Explain the stylistic and iconographic meaning of the Justinian and Theodora mosaics in San Vitale, Ravenna.
-In the San Vitale, Ravena depict justinian and his empress, theodora, accompanied by his officials, the local clergy, and the ladies-in-waiting, about to enter the church, as if it were a palace chapel. In these large panels the design of which most likely came form an imperial workshop, we find an ideal of beauty that is very different from the squat, large-headed figures we met in the art of the 4-5th cenuries. The union of political and spiritual authority expressed in these mosaics reflect the “divine kingship” of the byzantine emperor and honors the royal couple as donors of the church. It is as though the mosaic figures are in fact participating in the liturgy, even though the empress and emperor are actually thousands of miles away. The hem of theodora’s mantle shows the three Magi carrying their gifts to Mary and the newborn King, and like them the imperial couple bring offerings. Justinian brings bread and theodora a chaliec, references to jesus’ sacrifice of his own flesh and blood to remeem humanity. Also, Justinian portrays constantine the first christian emperor.
Early Medieval Art in Europe
What is ornamental style and what influence does it have on Christian manuscripts in Northumbria and Ireland?
-Ornamental style is derived from the Celtic ornamental metalwork which involved forming different types of metals into different patterns, such as interwoven designs or engraving, stamping, or punching then in and decorating them with colored stones, glass, or enamel. These metalwork designs then influence two-dimensional art, creating ornamental style, which emulated the interwoven designs and colorful patterns of the metalwork.
In the Christian manuscripts, such as the Book of Durrow from Dublin, Ireland, the use of ornamental style is obvious. The page of the 'Symbol of St. Matthew' from the Book of Durrow utilizes bright colors and gold leaf to create elaborate patterns clearly derived from metalwork. In the Lindisfarne Gospels from Northumbria, this metalworking style is pushed beyond its limits to become something of great complexity. This is most evident in the Cross page, which was planned out and designed in all its intricacies before it was even created. It is a masterpiece of dense detail, utilizing interlacing designs to its limits and colored precisely to create a unified image of the Christian cross. Without the design of the ornamental metalwork, ornamental style would not exist to bring complex beauty to the Christian manuscripts of Ireland and Northumbria.
Discuss the importance of the medieval manuscript. Who made them? How were they made? Choose an example articulate the merits of its craftsmanship and artistic importance.
-Medieval manuscripts became centers of learning and the arts, with much energy spent copying literary and religious texts. Each monastery’s scriptorium became an artistic center. Although pictures illustrating biblical events held little interest for the Irish Mokn’s they devoted great effort to decorative embellishment. The finest of these mauscprits belonged to the Hiberno-Saxon style. Which combines Christian with Celtic and Germanic elements. An example of this would be seen in the Symbol of St. Matthews from the Book of Durrow made in 680. It was a tempera on vellum. This page show how ornamental pattern can animate a figure even while accentuating its surface decoration.
What is the Carolingian revival? Is there any reference to ancient Roman tradition to be found in Carolingian times and why was this important?
-The Carolingian revival was a revival of art and education under the rule of crowned "holy Roman emperor" Charlemagne who sought to create art of the highest quality in the vein of the Roman empire as it was ruled by Constantine and Justinian. It restored the Roman education system in every cathedral and monastery. Charlemagne also worked to improve his administration and teach Christian truths. The Roman empire was a big influence to the revival not just to the education structure but also to the art produce such as the "Equestrian Statue of a Carolingian Ruler" which is speculated to be modeled after a Roman equestrian statue of Theodoric. Charlemagne also encouraged the copying of ancient Roman literature in illuminated text. The architecture of the Carolingian revival was largely modeled after Rome and Ravenna such as Charlemagne's "Palace at Aachen" which included a basilica as well as detailed Romanesque columns in the second story arches.
The Roman influence was important to Charlemagne as he had been dubbed the "holy Roman emperor" and true successor to Constantine who had been the first Christian emperor. His goal was to bring about a renewal of imperial Rome.
What is the importance of monasticism? Please discuss St. Gall as an example in your answer.
Monasticism refers to a religious way life, in which a devotee would renounce worldly pursuits in order to fully immerse themselves in more spiritual work. These devotees or monks of the Middle Ages played an active role in arguing against Iconoclasm in the western provinces. In the culture of early medieval period and their close link with the imperial court, monasteries were incredibly important, as shown in the plan of a monastery in St. Gall in Switzerland (820 CE). Now preserved in the chapter library at St. Gall, the plan shows a complex, self-contained unit filling a rectangle about 500 by 700 feet and providing a logical arrangement of buildings based on their function. The plan emphasizes the church as the center of a monastic community, and the church itself is a traditional basilica, with an apse at each end. The nave and the aisles, which contain many other altars, do not form a single continuous space but are subdivided into compartments by screens. Designed for the liturgical needs of the monks rather than for a lay congregation, the arrangement reflects the functions of a monastery church.
What are the new triumphs in style brought out in the Ottonian Empire?
-Make room for a haft buried basement chapel, or crypt, a feature not present in the early Christian basilica such as crypts. One of the triumphs on church’ architecture was that they raised the apse above the level of the rest of the church to with ambulatories, usually housing the venerated tomb of a Saint, had been introduced into western church architecture during Carolingian times. In their architecture, a modular system rules the division of space. Furthermore, The module in their churches can be seemed on the exterior of the building, which reads as a series of cubes arranged by stacking. Since, the aisles and nave are unusually wide in relation to their length, their churches achieve a harmononius balance between the longitudinal and horizontal axes throughout the structure.
Another great triumph of the Ottonian Empire their metal work. In which differently from the Greek temple doors that were in bronze, their bronze doors include relief sculptures like in the Doors of Bishop Bernward, which is decorated with scenes from the Bible’s old and new testament and consider the first door since the early Christian period to be decorated with such images.
Octtonian manuscripts indicated an increasing interest on the part of artist and patrons in narrative cycles of jesus’s life, which is the period’s most important contribution to the field of iconography. However, in sculpture was that they were the first to show Jesus Christ with the eyes closes representing his death as is seemed on the Gero crucifix cross.
What is meant by the term “Romanesque?” Articulate some of the key stylistic features associated with architecture in this style.
- Romanesque is the style of medieval architecture from the 11th and the 13th centuries that were more “Roman-looking” Their Naves had stone vaults instead of wooden roofs, and their exteriors were decorated with both architectural ornaments and sculpture.
A good example of an early phase of Romanesque architecture is the collegiate church of Saint Vincenc which was build within the walled confines of the castle at cardona on the southern flank of the Catalan Pyrenees. The church, begun in 1029 to 1040. Some elements in this romanesque church was a barrel-vault nave which creates a continuous space marked off by transverse arches into unites of space called bays. The domed bay in front of the Chancel, which is the part of the church that contains the altar and seats of the clergy. And these bays force attention on the ceremonial heart of the church. There are blind niches in the chancel walls that establish a rhythmic variety that is accentuated in the nave by the staggered cadense of massive compound piers. These compound piers were solid masonry supports with rectangular projections attached to their four faces. These projections are their to support the building by one projection is there to rise the full height of the nave to support the transvere arch and another forms the arch that extends across the side aisle, and the others connect to the arches of the nave arcade. This building was well planned and was not only eliminating fire hazards by not using wooden roofs
but to make the House of the Lord grander. The compound pier is a major architectural innovation of the Romanesque period as well as the rounded arches, thick walls, and small windows.
What is a pilgrimage site and was was the function of the site? Use Santiago da Compostela as a basis for your study. Identify the particular features that constitute this a pilgrimage church.
- pilgrimage site is a location people journey to that has spiritual significance. For example, places of birth or death of founders or saints, or to the place of their "calling" or spiritual awakening, or of their connection with the divine, or to locations where miracles were performed or witnessed, or locations where a deity is said to live or be "housed," or any site that is seen to have special spiritual powers. Santiago de Compostela is considered a pilgrimage site. Apostle James, after being martyred in the holy land, was brought back to Spain and buried at this site. Reports of his tombs miraculous powers attract people to this site. Santiago de Compostela could be considered a “pilgrimage plan” church. The “pilgrimage plan” were churches built along roads leading to Compostela. The four main roads leading to Compostela originated in France: Saint-Martin at Tours, Saint-Martial at Limoges, Sainte-Foy at Conquest, and Saint-Sernin at Toulouse. Santiago de Compostela was large enough to greet the tens of thousands that pilgrimaged here each year. The galleries also allowed overflow space, especially useful on particular feast days.
What does regionalism refer to? Compare and contrast two Romanesque churches from different countries in Europe to identify the different aspects of regional style.
Regionalism is then a variety of approaches can be identified within a period, yet there are consistent aesthetic aims are expressed. regional variety in romanesque art reflects the political conditions. Language differentness also can account for regional diversity. Different artists and patrons also leads to regionalism. This difference in approach within the Romanesque period can be seen when comparing the durham cathedral in England to Saint-Etienne in france. In the Durham Cathedral the bays are oblong and there are heavy arches. In the St. Etiene there is an airy-lightness. The bays of the nave, unlike Durham are square. ST. Etiene vaults are not separated by heavy transverse arches, but instead by simple ribs. The Durham has ribbed grouin vaults, which have 6 sections instead of 7.
Why was sculpture important on the exterior of Romanesque churches? Consider the importance of the location of the art and what that would have meant to the pilgrim. What theological themes were important? Why would these themes be relevant or what message did they provide?
-The revival of monumental stone sculpture in the Romanesque are is significant because free-standing statues had all but disappeared from Western art after the 5th century, the stone relief survived only as architerctual ornament or surface decoration, while three-dimensional sculpture was rare. The only sculptural tradition that continued through the early medieval period was that of sculpture in miniature.
Individual pilgrims made journeys to holy places for different reasons, but most shared the hope that they would find special powers or dispensations as a result of their journey. When pilgrims embark on their journey they enter a special transitional zone where social norms and hierarchies are replaced with a sense of shared experience. This creates a temporary condition of community, in which people of different backgrounds and social levels can communicate as equals. The buildings and objects pilgrims saw and experienced fostered this sense of community. The pilgrimage and the churches associated with it also provided opportunities for pilgrims to experiences spiritual fulfillment through the journey itself, which demonstrated their piety both to themselves and to the world, and through the experience of beautiful and moving buildings and the objects they contained. For these reasons, it was important for the architectural structures to be located on the exterior of the churches. Romanesque architecture and sculpture continue to convey messages of security and spirituality. Sculptural decoration was also arranged for educational purposes.
Gothic Art
Discuss the origins of the Gothic style? Who was responsible for its origin? What was the driving aesthetic and philosophical aim of the Gothic as written by the movement’s founder?
Gothic style began in1140 only in the province Ile-de-France, the royal domain of the french kings. Later it was adopted in most of western europe. An abbot, Suger, helped begin the gothic movement. He aspired to make the abbey at Saint Denis the spiritual center of France, a pilgrimage church to outshine all others and to provide a focal point or religious as well as patriotic emotion. He rebuilt the old Saint Denis and enlarged it.
What are the most important technological innovations in architecture advanced during the Gothic era?
All these new important technological innovations could be seen in the cathedral of Notre-Dame, Chartres and many other gothic cathedral.
Nave- The Chartres solution diminishes horizontally and treats the wall surface as a coherent vertical unit. Shafts are attached to the piers at Chartres stress the continuity of the vertical lines and guide your eye upward. Quadripartite vaults cover rectangular bays and, as a result the builders no longer needed to worry about an alternating system of supports. The quickened rhythm of shorter, rectangular bays intensifies the perceived pace of propulsion down the nave.
Flying buttress- These are arched bridges that reach upward to the critical spots between the clerstory windows where the outward thrust of the nave vault is concentrated.
Stained glass- In the Chartres, there are over 180 stained-glass. Stained glass gives the magic of the jewel like light from the clerestory and gives a “miraculous light” that creates the intensely mystical expereriance that lies at the heart of gothic spirituality.
Discuss how stained-glass advanced as a pictorial tradition? What techniques evolved? What was the great legacy of the medium?
-Stained glass advanced by in the Notre-Dame, Chartres, The a panel is decorated with many different pictures. As someone walks in that could not be about to read would understand some of the stories that would be told at that church. Nothing like this was done before the Gothic and gave people more of understandings then pictures sense stained glass looked heavenly and very catchy to the eye. The techniques that were involved were two ways there was the Plate Tracery and the bar tracery with plate tracery the windows seem to be cut out through solid stone walls, while bar tracery, slender pieces of stone frame and hold in the colored glass. The great legacy of the medium was that it made these cathedrals majestic and closer to god by these lights were coming in.
What was one of the most important themes from the Gothic period of art? This is seen in sculpture and painting and it referenced architecture as well.
The most important theme from the gothic period art is christ. It is prevalent in sculpture, painting and architecture. The sculpture on cathedrals represented Biblical story or portrayed christ. For example, the jamb statues on the Notre Dame in Chartes on the south transept depict three saints. These figures show a naturalism as well as a sense of serenity and balance. We can see the theme of christ in the paintings. Most of the paintings were shown in a manuscript illumination. These Psalter of Blanche of Castile has short biblical text and moralizing commentary, being both visual and textual. Architecture is greatly influenced by christ, the buildings were for worship purposes and were built at extraordinary levels as if they reached heaven. The invention of the flying buttresses made this possible. The stain glass windows created also a heavenly spiritual glow within the buildings.
Compare and contrast a Romanesque with a Gothic church.
A fine example of Romanesque Architecture is the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. It has the typical layout of the nave with two side aisles and in the shape of the Latin cross. The arches are the traditional curved that was very common. The most striking feature of this church is the Portico da Gloria. It is one of the few remaining features that is truly Romanesque. It has traces of the traditional polychromy construction. It contains the three openings to the major sections of the church. One of the best examples of Gothic Architecture is the Cathedral of Notre Dame. It is one of the finest examples still in existence. The Gothic style took many cues from the Romanesque and because of that the styles are very similar. It isn’t until the Renaissance that the building style takes a drastic change. The most Gothic feature on the Cathedral are the flying buttresses. They were added on after the thin Gothic style walls began to collapse under the weight. Another feature is the pointed arches that replaced the curved arches of the Romanesque time.
Discuss the Roman influences on Early Christian sculpture. Look at the Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus and compare it with some of the attributes of Roman art.
-The Early christian architecture and tis decorations began to demonstrate increasing monumentality as a result of its dependence on Roman imperial traditions. This caused the early christian sculpture to be more impressive and a work of art that demonstrated this is a fine Early Christian stone coffin, the Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus. This richly carved sarcophagus was made for a Roman who had died in 359 at age 42 and who had been “newly baptized” as an inscription would tell us. The front of this was divided by columns into ten …show more content…
compartments, which contains scenes from the Hebrew Bible and the Christian one (New Testament). The upper register we see from left to right the Sacrifice of Issac, St. Peter Taken Prisoner, Christ Enthroned Between Sts. Peter and Paul, and Jesus before Pontuis Pilate. The lower register are the Suffering of Job, the Temptation of Adam and Eve. Jesus’ Entry into Jerusalem, Daniel in the Lion Den, and St. Paul led to His Martydom.
The depictions of Peter and Paul, the veritable official saints of the city of Rome in which each is commemorated by a major basilica in the city can be related to Junius Bassus’ role as a hight-ranking government official. The Top register where Christ is enthroned with his feet treading on a personification of Coleus, the Roman pagan god of the heavens, as he gives the law to his disciples. Throughout this stone coffin these depiction's have a deep meaning in them all and is all referenced to God. Also, on this sarcophagus the style relies on imperial convention. This is most evident n the elements of classicism that are expressed, rich are the placement within deep, space-filled niches of figures that recall the dignity of Greek and Roman sculpture.
Use an example from Early Christian and Byzantine art and discuss how artists used the narrative and the iconic imagery to convey the foundations of the Christian faith. What is the difference between the “Iconic” meaning from the “narrative” meaning in a work of art. What are the striking differences between the treatment of style and subjects in the two periods,
-An example of Early Christian art is the Catacomb of Santissimi Pietro e Marcellino, Rome, Italy which was created in the 4th century. On the ceiling of one of the more elaborate chambers in the catacomb is decorated in a style that was once formal and uncomplicated. Fixed boarders control the overall organization; a central medallion or circle contains the figure of a shepherd, who is flanked by sheep and carries a lamb across his shoulders. The circle is connected to four Lunettes and in the four corners are single figures with outstretched raised arms. This ceiling actually was consistent with the biblical phohbitition against image making, as specified in the 2cd commandment. Which this commandment christ is generally not represented in the catacombs except by metaphor. The figure of the shepherd was was flanked by sheep and is caring a lamb is a potent allusion to christ, Sense, in a number of biblical accounts Christ would refer himself as a Good Shepherd. Due to a concern for the well being of his flock and willing to sacrifice himself in order to guarantee the salvation of those who followed him. The Four Lunettes around the Good Shepherd forms a dedication to the Hebrew prophet Johan. Also, a principle of faith that Jonah spent three days in the belly of a great Whale, therefore christ is suppose to have spent three days in the tomb. This also can be seen from classical sources and the Good Shepherd himself is a reinder of pagan symbols of charity in the form of ancient sculptures of men carrying sacrificial animals on their shoulders.
-The narrative meaning of work of art is showing messages of comfort and to give us a sense of Early Christian art that was developed during the turmoil of Rome’s decline. This was a time of political, social, and economic instability. So
What are the distinguishing examples of basilicas and central-plan churches. Discuss the forms and how they were built to accommodate the needs of the people and their devotional practice.
Early Christian basilicas owe much of it's structure and features to Imperial Roman basilicas. One that shows a clear example of this is Old St. Peter's in Rome, which was replaced by the present St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. These basilicas have long naves, which is the central aisle in a basilica flanked by side aisles, that extends from the entrance, which was an atrium, to the apse or transept, and it is housed by a triangular, or trussed, roof. They were built this way to hold the many people who would come to proclaim their Christian status.
Central-plan structures were buildings in the round or polygonal shape, and were covered by a domed roof. These were structures that served as tombs or mausoleums, such as Santa Constanza, which was built in Rome for Constantine's daughter, Constantin. The building has a central space that is lit by clerestory windows. Above those are the dome, which is supported by 12 pairs of columns. Four is the arches are taller and suggest a cross within the circle. At the eastern, more elevated arch, was the sarcophagus. And around the whole building was an ambulatory, which is a ring-shaped aisle, covered by a barrel vault.
What is iconoclasm?
-After the time of Justinian which was the development of the Byzantine art was disrupted by the so-called Iconoclastic Controversy.
The conflict which began with an edict promulgated by the Byzantine emperor Leo III in 726 which prohibited religious images, raged for more then 100 years between too hostile groups. Iconoclasts or the image destroyers that were led by the emperor and supported mainly in the eastern provinces, insisted on a literal interpretation of the Biblical ban against the graven images because they led to idolatry. Their plan was to restrict religious art to abstract symbols and plant or animal …show more content…
form.
One the other side of this conflict was the Iconophiles which were led by the monks. They were particularly centered in the Western provinces and that was were the imperial edict remained ineffective for the most part. With these both sides the strongest argument was Neo-Platonic: Because Christ and his image were inseparable, the honor given to the image is transferred to him. This idea is almost still in effect today. Socially and politically, the conflict was a power struggle between church and state. The conflict came during a low point in the Byzantine power, when the Empire had been greatly reduced in size nu the rise of the Islam. Iconoclasm, it was argued, that justified by Leo’s victories over the Arabs and who themselves were Iconoclasts. This controversy caused an itteparable break between Catholicism and the Orthodox faith. Yet, these churches stayed united until the pope in 1054 excommunicated the EAstern patriarch for Heresy.
To summarize Iconoclasm is a doctrine of the christian church in the 8th and 9th centuries that forebade the worship or production of religious images. This doctrine led to the destruction of many works of art. The iconoclastic controversy over the validity of this doctrine led to a division of the church.
Explain the stylistic and iconographic meaning of the Justinian and Theodora mosaics in San Vitale, Ravenna.
-In the San Vitale, Ravena depict justinian and his empress, theodora, accompanied by his officials, the local clergy, and the ladies-in-waiting, about to enter the church, as if it were a palace chapel. In these large panels the design of which most likely came form an imperial workshop, we find an ideal of beauty that is very different from the squat, large-headed figures we met in the art of the 4-5th cenuries. The union of political and spiritual authority expressed in these mosaics reflect the “divine kingship” of the byzantine emperor and honors the royal couple as donors of the church. It is as though the mosaic figures are in fact participating in the liturgy, even though the empress and emperor are actually thousands of miles away. The hem of theodora’s mantle shows the three Magi carrying their gifts to Mary and the newborn King, and like them the imperial couple bring offerings. Justinian brings bread and theodora a chaliec, references to jesus’ sacrifice of his own flesh and blood to remeem humanity. Also, Justinian portrays constantine the first christian emperor.
Early Medieval Art in Europe
What is ornamental style and what influence does it have on Christian manuscripts in Northumbria and Ireland?
-Ornamental style is derived from the Celtic ornamental metalwork which involved forming different types of metals into different patterns, such as interwoven designs or engraving, stamping, or punching then in and decorating them with colored stones, glass, or enamel. These metalwork designs then influence two-dimensional art, creating ornamental style, which emulated the interwoven designs and colorful patterns of the metalwork.
In the Christian manuscripts, such as the Book of Durrow from Dublin, Ireland, the use of ornamental style is obvious. The page of the 'Symbol of St. Matthew' from the Book of Durrow utilizes bright colors and gold leaf to create elaborate patterns clearly derived from metalwork. In the Lindisfarne Gospels from Northumbria, this metalworking style is pushed beyond its limits to become something of great complexity. This is most evident in the Cross page, which was planned out and designed in all its intricacies before it was even created. It is a masterpiece of dense detail, utilizing interlacing designs to its limits and colored precisely to create a unified image of the Christian cross. Without the design of the ornamental metalwork, ornamental style would not exist to bring complex beauty to the Christian manuscripts of Ireland and Northumbria.
Discuss the importance of the medieval manuscript. Who made them? How were they made? Choose an example articulate the merits of its craftsmanship and artistic importance.
-Medieval manuscripts became centers of learning and the arts, with much energy spent copying literary and religious texts. Each monastery’s scriptorium became an artistic center. Although pictures illustrating biblical events held little interest for the Irish Mokn’s they devoted great effort to decorative embellishment. The finest of these mauscprits belonged to the Hiberno-Saxon style. Which combines Christian with Celtic and Germanic elements. An example of this would be seen in the Symbol of St. Matthews from the Book of Durrow made in 680. It was a tempera on vellum. This page show how ornamental pattern can animate a figure even while accentuating its surface decoration.
What is the Carolingian revival? Is there any reference to ancient Roman tradition to be found in Carolingian times and why was this important?
-The Carolingian revival was a revival of art and education under the rule of crowned "holy Roman emperor" Charlemagne who sought to create art of the highest quality in the vein of the Roman empire as it was ruled by Constantine and Justinian. It restored the Roman education system in every cathedral and monastery. Charlemagne also worked to improve his administration and teach Christian truths. The Roman empire was a big influence to the revival not just to the education structure but also to the art produce such as the "Equestrian Statue of a Carolingian Ruler" which is speculated to be modeled after a Roman equestrian statue of Theodoric. Charlemagne also encouraged the copying of ancient Roman literature in illuminated text. The architecture of the Carolingian revival was largely modeled after Rome and Ravenna such as Charlemagne's "Palace at Aachen" which included a basilica as well as detailed Romanesque columns in the second story arches.
The Roman influence was important to Charlemagne as he had been dubbed the "holy Roman emperor" and true successor to Constantine who had been the first Christian emperor. His goal was to bring about a renewal of imperial Rome.
What is the importance of monasticism? Please discuss St. Gall as an example in your answer.
Monasticism refers to a religious way life, in which a devotee would renounce worldly pursuits in order to fully immerse themselves in more spiritual work. These devotees or monks of the Middle Ages played an active role in arguing against Iconoclasm in the western provinces. In the culture of early medieval period and their close link with the imperial court, monasteries were incredibly important, as shown in the plan of a monastery in St. Gall in Switzerland (820 CE). Now preserved in the chapter library at St. Gall, the plan shows a complex, self-contained unit filling a rectangle about 500 by 700 feet and providing a logical arrangement of buildings based on their function. The plan emphasizes the church as the center of a monastic community, and the church itself is a traditional basilica, with an apse at each end. The nave and the aisles, which contain many other altars, do not form a single continuous space but are subdivided into compartments by screens. Designed for the liturgical needs of the monks rather than for a lay congregation, the arrangement reflects the functions of a monastery church.
What are the new triumphs in style brought out in the Ottonian Empire?
-Make room for a haft buried basement chapel, or crypt, a feature not present in the early Christian basilica such as crypts. One of the triumphs on church’ architecture was that they raised the apse above the level of the rest of the church to with ambulatories, usually housing the venerated tomb of a Saint, had been introduced into western church architecture during Carolingian times. In their architecture, a modular system rules the division of space. Furthermore, The module in their churches can be seemed on the exterior of the building, which reads as a series of cubes arranged by stacking. Since, the aisles and nave are unusually wide in relation to their length, their churches achieve a harmononius balance between the longitudinal and horizontal axes throughout the structure.
Another great triumph of the Ottonian Empire their metal work. In which differently from the Greek temple doors that were in bronze, their bronze doors include relief sculptures like in the Doors of Bishop Bernward, which is decorated with scenes from the Bible’s old and new testament and consider the first door since the early Christian period to be decorated with such images.
Octtonian manuscripts indicated an increasing interest on the part of artist and patrons in narrative cycles of jesus’s life, which is the period’s most important contribution to the field of iconography. However, in sculpture was that they were the first to show Jesus Christ with the eyes closes representing his death as is seemed on the Gero crucifix cross.
What is meant by the term “Romanesque?” Articulate some of the key stylistic features associated with architecture in this style.
- Romanesque is the style of medieval architecture from the 11th and the 13th centuries that were more “Roman-looking” Their Naves had stone vaults instead of wooden roofs, and their exteriors were decorated with both architectural ornaments and sculpture.
A good example of an early phase of Romanesque architecture is the collegiate church of Saint Vincenc which was build within the walled confines of the castle at cardona on the southern flank of the Catalan Pyrenees. The church, begun in 1029 to 1040. Some elements in this romanesque church was a barrel-vault nave which creates a continuous space marked off by transverse arches into unites of space called bays. The domed bay in front of the Chancel, which is the part of the church that contains the altar and seats of the clergy. And these bays force attention on the ceremonial heart of the church. There are blind niches in the chancel walls that establish a rhythmic variety that is accentuated in the nave by the staggered cadense of massive compound piers. These compound piers were solid masonry supports with rectangular projections attached to their four faces. These projections are their to support the building by one projection is there to rise the full height of the nave to support the transvere arch and another forms the arch that extends across the side aisle, and the others connect to the arches of the nave arcade. This building was well planned and was not only eliminating fire hazards by not using wooden roofs
but to make the House of the Lord grander. The compound pier is a major architectural innovation of the Romanesque period as well as the rounded arches, thick walls, and small windows.
What is a pilgrimage site and was was the function of the site? Use Santiago da Compostela as a basis for your study. Identify the particular features that constitute this a pilgrimage church.
- pilgrimage site is a location people journey to that has spiritual significance. For example, places of birth or death of founders or saints, or to the place of their "calling" or spiritual awakening, or of their connection with the divine, or to locations where miracles were performed or witnessed, or locations where a deity is said to live or be "housed," or any site that is seen to have special spiritual powers. Santiago de Compostela is considered a pilgrimage site. Apostle James, after being martyred in the holy land, was brought back to Spain and buried at this site. Reports of his tombs miraculous powers attract people to this site. Santiago de Compostela could be considered a “pilgrimage plan” church. The “pilgrimage plan” were churches built along roads leading to Compostela. The four main roads leading to Compostela originated in France: Saint-Martin at Tours, Saint-Martial at Limoges, Sainte-Foy at Conquest, and Saint-Sernin at Toulouse. Santiago de Compostela was large enough to greet the tens of thousands that pilgrimaged here each year. The galleries also allowed overflow space, especially useful on particular feast days.
What does regionalism refer to? Compare and contrast two Romanesque churches from different countries in Europe to identify the different aspects of regional style.
Regionalism is then a variety of approaches can be identified within a period, yet there are consistent aesthetic aims are expressed. regional variety in romanesque art reflects the political conditions. Language differentness also can account for regional diversity. Different artists and patrons also leads to regionalism. This difference in approach within the Romanesque period can be seen when comparing the durham cathedral in England to Saint-Etienne in france. In the Durham Cathedral the bays are oblong and there are heavy arches. In the St. Etiene there is an airy-lightness. The bays of the nave, unlike Durham are square. ST. Etiene vaults are not separated by heavy transverse arches, but instead by simple ribs. The Durham has ribbed grouin vaults, which have 6 sections instead of 7.
Why was sculpture important on the exterior of Romanesque churches? Consider the importance of the location of the art and what that would have meant to the pilgrim. What theological themes were important? Why would these themes be relevant or what message did they provide?
-The revival of monumental stone sculpture in the Romanesque are is significant because free-standing statues had all but disappeared from Western art after the 5th century, the stone relief survived only as architerctual ornament or surface decoration, while three-dimensional sculpture was rare. The only sculptural tradition that continued through the early medieval period was that of sculpture in miniature.
Individual pilgrims made journeys to holy places for different reasons, but most shared the hope that they would find special powers or dispensations as a result of their journey. When pilgrims embark on their journey they enter a special transitional zone where social norms and hierarchies are replaced with a sense of shared experience. This creates a temporary condition of community, in which people of different backgrounds and social levels can communicate as equals. The buildings and objects pilgrims saw and experienced fostered this sense of community. The pilgrimage and the churches associated with it also provided opportunities for pilgrims to experiences spiritual fulfillment through the journey itself, which demonstrated their piety both to themselves and to the world, and through the experience of beautiful and moving buildings and the objects they contained. For these reasons, it was important for the architectural structures to be located on the exterior of the churches. Romanesque architecture and sculpture continue to convey messages of security and spirituality. Sculptural decoration was also arranged for educational purposes.
Gothic Art
Discuss the origins of the Gothic style? Who was responsible for its origin? What was the driving aesthetic and philosophical aim of the Gothic as written by the movement’s founder?
Gothic style began in1140 only in the province Ile-de-France, the royal domain of the french kings. Later it was adopted in most of western europe. An abbot, Suger, helped begin the gothic movement. He aspired to make the abbey at Saint Denis the spiritual center of France, a pilgrimage church to outshine all others and to provide a focal point or religious as well as patriotic emotion. He rebuilt the old Saint Denis and enlarged it.
What are the most important technological innovations in architecture advanced during the Gothic era?
All these new important technological innovations could be seen in the cathedral of Notre-Dame, Chartres and many other gothic cathedral.
Nave- The Chartres solution diminishes horizontally and treats the wall surface as a coherent vertical unit. Shafts are attached to the piers at Chartres stress the continuity of the vertical lines and guide your eye upward. Quadripartite vaults cover rectangular bays and, as a result the builders no longer needed to worry about an alternating system of supports. The quickened rhythm of shorter, rectangular bays intensifies the perceived pace of propulsion down the nave.
Flying buttress- These are arched bridges that reach upward to the critical spots between the clerstory windows where the outward thrust of the nave vault is concentrated.
Stained glass- In the Chartres, there are over 180 stained-glass. Stained glass gives the magic of the jewel like light from the clerestory and gives a “miraculous light” that creates the intensely mystical expereriance that lies at the heart of gothic spirituality.
Discuss how stained-glass advanced as a pictorial tradition? What techniques evolved? What was the great legacy of the medium?
-Stained glass advanced by in the Notre-Dame, Chartres, The a panel is decorated with many different pictures. As someone walks in that could not be about to read would understand some of the stories that would be told at that church. Nothing like this was done before the Gothic and gave people more of understandings then pictures sense stained glass looked heavenly and very catchy to the eye. The techniques that were involved were two ways there was the Plate Tracery and the bar tracery with plate tracery the windows seem to be cut out through solid stone walls, while bar tracery, slender pieces of stone frame and hold in the colored glass. The great legacy of the medium was that it made these cathedrals majestic and closer to god by these lights were coming in.
What was one of the most important themes from the Gothic period of art? This is seen in sculpture and painting and it referenced architecture as well.
The most important theme from the gothic period art is christ. It is prevalent in sculpture, painting and architecture. The sculpture on cathedrals represented Biblical story or portrayed christ. For example, the jamb statues on the Notre Dame in Chartes on the south transept depict three saints. These figures show a naturalism as well as a sense of serenity and balance. We can see the theme of christ in the paintings. Most of the paintings were shown in a manuscript illumination. These Psalter of Blanche of Castile has short biblical text and moralizing commentary, being both visual and textual. Architecture is greatly influenced by christ, the buildings were for worship purposes and were built at extraordinary levels as if they reached heaven. The invention of the flying buttresses made this possible. The stain glass windows created also a heavenly spiritual glow within the buildings.
Compare and contrast a Romanesque with a Gothic church.
A fine example of Romanesque Architecture is the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. It has the typical layout of the nave with two side aisles and in the shape of the Latin cross. The arches are the traditional curved that was very common. The most striking feature of this church is the Portico da Gloria. It is one of the few remaining features that is truly Romanesque. It has traces of the traditional polychromy construction. It contains the three openings to the major sections of the church. One of the best examples of Gothic Architecture is the Cathedral of Notre Dame. It is one of the finest examples still in existence. The Gothic style took many cues from the Romanesque and because of that the styles are very similar. It isn’t until the Renaissance that the building style takes a drastic change. The most Gothic feature on the Cathedral are the flying buttresses. They were added on after the thin Gothic style walls began to collapse under the weight. Another feature is the pointed arches that replaced the curved arches of the Romanesque time.