Romanesque Art and Craftsmanship in Central Europe, 900-1300: Artistic Aspects of the Style

As a sequel to the analysis of Romanesque church architecture as the Heavenly Jerusalem on earth, this book reviews the embellishing cloister arts during the Romanesque period in Central Europe. This book discusses the work in textiles, ivory, wood, precious metals, bronze, and illuminated manuscripts. Pertinent illustrations stress the themes common to those media, suggesting that the craftsmen knew one another s work. Some may have worked in more than one medium. Circumstances tended to preserve religious works. The book rests on the extensive use of detailed illustrative objects and images in their historical, spiritual and intellectual contexts. The surviving wealth of Romanesque artifacts and images is so extensive, that only an eclectic treatment is possible. The artistry is of such high quality that one readily considers these objects of art as symbols of ethereal value. Thematically, many of the images are linked with underlying texts in typological and Christological relationships, clarifying the Scriptures as texts by other means. Owing to their perishable, organic nature, some of the media, such as textiles and wood were more vulnerable to decay. Others have survived the centuries despite neglect and abuse. The work in precious metals, amplified by gem encrustation has suffered, as some objects were melted down to provide the raw material for new works, and as semi-precious stones, gems and pearls were looted. In later times of need, the confiscation of these treasures was a convenient means to replenish the coffers of the state, while bronzes helped satisfy the need for armaments.