Early Medieval Art Overview

Medieval Art

Artistic expression from the period between Christianity adoption and the Renaissance

Merovingians

Ruling dynasty in 6th century France, known for jeweled fibulae

Cloisonné Technique

Enamel work with colored areas separated by thin metal bands

Vikings

Skilled woodcarvers known for animal motifs and interlace patterns

Hiberno-Saxon Monasteries

Monastic groups in Ireland known for illuminated manuscripts

Book of Durrow

Early Hiberno-Saxon manuscript with Gospels passages

Carpet Pages

Manuscript pages with decorative panels of abstract and animal motifs

Interlace

Decorative pattern in manuscripts with looped, braided, or knotted motifs

Visigoths

Germanic invaders who converted to Christianity and used basilica form

Mozarabic Cultures

Christians in Arab territories blending Christian and Islamic art

Carolingian Renaissance

Revival of arts under Charlemagne with imperial portraits and manuscripts

Repoussé

Metalworking technique creating raised forms by hammering from the back

Westwork

Monumental Western facade in Carolingian church architecture

Ottonians

German emperors in the mid-tenth century unifying Eastern Europe

Church of St. Michael

Distinctive Ottonian basilica in Hildesheim, Germany with double transept

Crucifix

Freestanding sculptural representation of Christ on the cross