Early Medieval Art highlights

Carolingian 8th-9th CenturiesOttonian 10th -11th Centuries

Carolingian Art

Equestrian Statue of a Carolingian Ruler, 9th century, bronze, Louvre, Paris

• Charlemagne was first Holy Roman Emperor

• Spearheaded revival of classical art and learning

• Compare to Roman equestrian statues

• Rider too large for horse• Orb symbolic of imperial rule

Carolingian Architecture

Lorsch Gatehouse, c. 760, Lorsch, Germany

• Triple arched opening divided by engaged columns reminiscent of the Arch of Constantine

• Churches had elaborate Westworks (no image), which are elaborately decorated entrances

Ottonian Art

Abbey Church of Saint Michael’s, 1001-33, Hildesheim, Germany

• 3 kings named Otto reunited central Europe

• Continuation of Carolingian imperialism

• LARGE buildings• Windows didn’t always

match up with arches

Ottonian large scale works

Bishop Bernward Doors, 1015, bronze, St. Michael’s, Hildesheim, Germany. 15’ tall, bronze doors are imperial, Fall and Redemption of Man, thin figures with lively gestures

Gero Crucifix, 970, wood, Cologne CathedralLife-size wooden work, mounmental art returns!, emotional and suffering figure, first image of Christ hanging on a cross

Expulsion from the Garden of Eden, Bishop Bernward Doors, 1015, St. Michael’s, Hildesheim, Germany