Early Medieval art- additional information

Medieval= Middle ages Early Medieval was given this title because it was the block of time between the Fall of the Roman Empire and the Early Renaissance. It was believed that this was a “dark time”.. A time when artwork was underdeveloped, etc. Scholars & historians now recognize that this time should not have a negative label.

Historical Background Tumultuous times Migrating Germanic peoples and Celts are invading western Europe. Art is a result of a number of cultures and a variety of regions. Invaders establish permanent settlements and adopt traditional customs of the areas they inhabit. Roman traditions and CHRISTIANITY are adopted.

CHRISTIANITY Very attractive at this time. WHY??!!! Because of its spiritual message and for the structure it imposes on a fragmented society during these tumultuous times. Conversion from Pagan worship

Side note: WHAT IS PAGANISM? Paganism is an umbrella term for a nature- based religion that considers many gods. Sun God, moon God, etc. They do not worship- they believe these gods lie within themselves and nature.

Often when a tribal leader converts to Christianity, his subjects convert with him… en masse.. (meaning as a group) . The CHURCH is a vital force for European unification. The art that results is a vibrant and vital mix. Begins with elaborate interlocking patterns on items of personal adornment and weaponry.

Art cont.. Eventually, there is a shift of emphasis on the types of objects produced. The Church builds many houses of worship and monasteries. Within monasteries, scribes are making elaborately decorated books. These are created to send away to convert and educate the non believers.

Pagan Art- Animal style Artistic tradition of Germanic peoples- a unique combination of abstract and organic shapes. Uses formal discipline of metalworking and imaginative freedom. Patterns can seem confusing and confining to us but there is an intentional design in each one. SUTTON HOO Chief medium of animal style was metal work. Animal style spreads geographically and also appears in different mediums (paint, wood, stone, etc)

Hiberno-saxon Hibernia= Ireland Spiritual and cultural leaders of western Europe. The Irish readily accept Christianity. Irish monks dedicate their lives to decorative manuscripts. Hiberno-Saxon style= a style that combines Christian with Celtic and Germanic elements. Monks speed conversion to Christianity in Europe. Produce large numbers of books by hand.

Manuscripts: Each manuscript was considered a sacred object containing the Word of God (GOSPEL) It’s beauty needed to reflect the importance of its contents. Convey precious message of 4 evangelists into 4 gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, & John They were assigned an animal to represent each evangelist. Animals appear in manuscripts. Irish scribes are held in the highest regard

Lindisfarne Gospels Produced in England Ruler and compass were used and the drawing was followed with painstaking precision. Every line has to turn out to be part of an animal’s body. Rules of symmetry, mirror image effects, and repetition of shape and color are also included. Clawing monsters are subdued by the power of the Cross.

Book of Kells Hiberno-Saxon 100 years after Lindisfarne Gospels Most elaborate codex of Celtic art. It’s name comes from the Irish monastery of Kells, where it was housed. XPI is Chi Rota Iota are Christ’s initials in Greek. In Latin next to it, it reads “Christi autem gereratio” – which means “now this is how the birth of Christ came about”

Kells continued: Book of Matthew: features the birth of Jesus. Literacy is RARE and class –based. The Book is a symbol of authority and dominance. It mystifies many people at this time. Richness and intricacy of illustration demand concentration from its viewer.

Carolingian Art New empire forms out of the collection of tribes and kingdoms that dominated northern Europe. Founded by CHARLEMAGNE, king of the Franks. 768-814 He was given the title Emperor of Rome on Christmas Day in 800 pronouncing him the first CHRISTIAN EMPEROR. Emperors were crowned in Rome but did not live there. He lived in what is now Germany.

Imperial artwork is revived! Equestrian statue of Charlemagne = Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius Holds a globe= symbol of world dominion Charlemagne was a sincere admirer of the arts, learning, and classical culture. Placed a high value on books (gospels) and imported them and produced many more. Coronation Gospels Bejeweled golden books- Lindau Gospels- Gold and Gems glorify the Word of God.

Refer to alternate powerpoint for Ottonian info