Introduction
Medieval art is presented in various masterpieces of literature and architecture. Several styles were widely spread in the Middle Ages. The main goal of this paper is to describe examples of medieval art, highlighting their distinguishing characteristics.
Manuscripts of the Early Middle Ages
The Rochefoucauld Grail is a medieval illuminated French manuscript. It was created in the 14th century (“The Rochefoucauld Grail,” n.d.). The manuscript was commissioned by the French aristocrat Baron de Rochefoucauld. One of the possible reasons for creating this book was to highlight the noble status of the owner. The book describes the main human problems relating to love, friendship, and dignity. The author demonstrated his view on how to cope with human passions and emotions. The book contains various visuals illustrating violent battles. They emphasize the author’s idea of difficulties that people living in this brutal time had to overcome.
Codex Amiatinus is a manuscript that presents the Latin translation of the Bible. Codex Amiatinus was commissioned by the Benedictine monk, Ceolfrid, in the 8th century in Tuscany (“Illuminated manuscripts from Europe,” n.d.). The book was created as a gift for the pope. The manuscript presents narratives from the Old and New Testaments. The author’s handwriting is distinguished by big beautiful uncial letters. Also, there is no punctuation, which makes a reader focus on a sentence structure more carefully. It contributes to a more accurate understanding of the main biblical concepts.
Rule of Saint Benedict is a manuscript commissioned by Charlemagne at the end of the 8th century in Rome. The main purpose was to establish an official version of the rule of monastic life (“Illuminated manuscripts from Europe,” n.d.). The main idea of the document was to describe principles that monks should have abided by and spread them throughout the country. The accurate and modest handwriting manner emphasizes the main attributes of the monk’s life. The decoration of the initials demonstrated the beauty and comprehensiveness of simplicity underlined in this work.
The reasons for creating most religious texts nowadays are the same as before. These medieval books are focused on the controversial human nature and present the vision on how to resist the temptations to which all people are exposed. Modern religious texts are brightly illuminated, though they lack the beauty of handwriting compare to medieval works.
Romanesque and Gothic Cathedrals
Chartres Cathedral is an example of French Gothic art. It was built in 1145 in Chartres, France (“Chartres Cathedral,” n.d.). This masterpiece has distinguishing attributes of Gothic style like the pointed arch and the flying buttress. The cathedral’s exterior is decorated with stained-glass windows and various sculptures. The most remarkable element of the cathedral’s interior is the nave made in the ogival style. The sculptures “stresses the mission of the church to teach and preach” (“Chartres Cathedral,” n.d., para. 20). The windows filter the light, turning it into the warm glow that creates a peaceful atmosphere. Numerous paintings present different episodes from the Bible and images of the saints. Visitors experience awe and admiration as this incredible architectural achievement is filled with the power of medieval history.
Lund Cathedral is an example of Romanesque architecture. It is located in Lund, Sweden. The cathedral was built in the 11th century (“Lund Cathedral,” 2015). The Romanesque style might be seen in the floorplan, the arched gallery, and the vault beneath the church. The main exterior details are the cathedral’s towers with the pyramidal roofs. They decorated with various sculptures that present biblical motives.
One of the most distinguishing Romanesque characteristics might be noticed inside the cathedral. These are small windows that barely allow light to get through, creating a dark atmosphere. Also, there are five organs and the astronomical clock. Various paintings decorating the interior depict scenes from the Old Testament. Viewers experience silence and peace, mixed with profound inspiration from the past accomplishments of great craftsmen.
Conclusion
Medieval art had a crucial impact on the modern world. Its masterpieces withstood the test of time. The mentioned above examples present the outstanding works of the talented artists of the past.
References
Chartres Cathedral. (n.d.)
Illuminated manuscripts from Europe. (n.d.).
Lund Cathedral. (2015).
The Rochefoucauld Grail. (n.d.).