Medieval Masterpieces, Grades 7-12
Rich intellectual and technical achievements distinguish the art of the Middle Ages. Throughout Europe manuscript illumination, architecture, sculpture and metal work flourished under the patronage of church and court. In this lesson students will encounter splendid liturgical objects such as a gold and porphyry altarpiece made for an 11th c. German countess, and a silver vessel for a holy relic obtained from a Byzantine emperor. Courtly items also featured in the lesson include a whimsical table fountain and Gothic style tapestries made for a chateau. Biblical subjects such as Daniel in the lion’s den—seen on a medieval column capital—help make connections between art and religion for classes studying world religions, culture and/or European history.
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Table Fountain, France, Paris(?), 14th century c. 1300-1350
1924.859
Virgin and Child with Saints, Ugolino da Siena (Italian) early 1320s
1961.40