Medieval and Renaissance Art Notes

Medieval Period Overview

  • Timeframe: 350 AD to 1550 AD

  • Also known as the "Middle Ages".

  • Emphasized deep religious Christian and Catholic faith, showcasing idealistic artistic expression.

Byzantine Period

  • Context: Post the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD, the Byzantine Empire persisted for an additional millennium.

  • Identity: Inhabitants considered themselves Romans, reflecting cultural shifts and tensions with the Roman Catholic Church.

Art Characteristics

  • Predominantly religious, following traditional models translated from church theology.

  • Architectural evolution from Western Roman styles to centrally planned structures and Greek-cross designs.

  • Notable Style:

    • Lack of realism; focus on symbolism.

    • Flat paintings devoid of shadows.

Important Artworks

  • Ascension Scene from the Rabula Gospel (6th century): Illustrates abstract and symbolic nature.

  • Mosaics: Found in notable sites like the Basilica of San Vitale and Santa Maria Maggiore, showcasing detailed religious themes.

Early Christian Period

  • Geographic focus: Regions surrounding the Eastern Mediterranean, primarily Central Italy.

  • Construction of churches and monuments used stones from pagan temples.

Architectural Features

  • Flat ceilings, semi-circular arches, high walls with small windows.

  • Interiors rich with mosaics and ornate paintings.

Romanesque and Norman Period

  • Romanesque Art: A medieval style influenced by Italian and Southern French artistry.

  • Historical Context: Post-1066 Norman invasion, leading to significant construction of ecclesiastical buildings.

Cultural Shifts

  • The Crusades (1095–1270) fostered migration and the sharing of artistic techniques.

  • Emergence of lay artists and a rise in art production beyond royal courts and monasteries.

Artistic Elements

  • Features stained glass, murals, and illuminated manuscripts.

Gothic Period

  • Development: Emerged from Romanesque in the 12th century, characterized by a shift towards realism.

  • Influences: Economic and theological factors in Northern France.

Architectural Innovations

  • Lighter structures, large stained glass windows, pointed arches, tall buildings symbolizing the universe.

  • Noteworthy example: Abbey Church of Saint Denis started Gothic architecture with Abbot Suger's designs.

Characteristics of Gothic Art

  • Emphasis on realism, use of perspective, and diverse subject matter beyond religious themes.

  • Architectural and artistic elements converging to convey theological messages.

Renaissance Overview

  • Definition: Means "rebirth"; characterized by the revival of classical learning and a focus on humanity.

  • Developed from the 14th to 16th centuries across Europe.

Early Renaissance (1400-1475)

  • Shift from the Byzantine style towards realism led by artists like Cimabue and Giotto.

  • Innovations in perspective and anatomical studies.

High Renaissance (1474-1525)

  • A period of iconic artworks exemplified by artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.

  • Such artworks include The Last Supper and The Mona Lisa.

Late Renaissance/Mannerism (1525-1600)

  • Style evolved to express elongated figures and sophistications of composition.

  • Key artists: Pontormo, Bronzino, and Parmigianino.

Renaissance Architecture

  • Influenced profoundly by classical Roman techniques.

  • Characterized by domes, arches, and a balance between form and decorative elements.