Premium Essay

Romanesque and Gothic

In:

Submitted By roboto123
Words 275
Pages 2
Romanesque is first used to describe the architecture of Western Europe from about the 9th to 12th century. It has become applied by extension to other arts, in particular sculpture. (click)

Sculptures are mostly found inside or on the façade of churches such as tympanum and capitals of the columns. They are all very simple because they believe the soul (inside beauty) is more important than the body. Subject is usually Christian religion, the purpose of the sculpture is to illustrate the message of the Bible, teach stories to the illiterate. A favourite subject for the tympanum is the Last Judgement. The theme vividly reminds the pilgrims of the need of pious devotion.

Click

At the beginning of the Medieval era, Romanesque columns had all sorts of plants, animals and people intertwined in Gallic patterns. Then many capitals illustrate stories from the bible. click Then, there came the tympanum, then columns to each side, the figures of saints and sinners in stories on the façade of the main entrance. click These very early Romanesque carved figures are saints. Notice the distortions: they have rather blocky bodies made from flat, simple shapes with very large head and hands. Their feet are tiny, compared to their hands. Perspective is also distorted. The size of the figures would make them giants in relationship to the columns. click It also happens to the tympanum: The tympanum of St Trophime; The hands and arms are still very flat and awkward looking; the wings, legs and tail of the birds are connected at unrealistic angles.

They often depicted terrifying spectacles of hell. They also showed a tendency toward geometric

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Art: Romanesque and Gothic Architecture

...Art: Romanesque and Gothic Architecture The Romanesque and gothic styles were both placed in the western period during the middle ages. Both styles were mostly applied in architecture. Romanesque art started in the 7th century and it reached the rest of the Western Europe in a short period of time. Romanesque was the main artistic style in the 12th century until it gave way to the beginning of gothic architecture (Banister 12). Romanesque art come into being around 1000 AD and lasted until 1150 AD. The name Romanesque came from the fusion of Roman, Carolingian and Ottonian. The Romanesque architectural styles were of Roman origin. The structural design included large internal spaces which were topped by barrel vaults, piers and squat columns. The windows and doors in the Romanesque style were made of round headed arches and most of the major churches are laid out on the basilica plan and are modified by the additions of buttresses, transepts and towers (Banister 12). The gothic art was a medieval art movement that urbanized in France so it was fully developed in France and in England in the 12th century. By the 13th century, it had already spread all over Germany. Gothic art emerged out of Romanesque art in the 12th century. Gothic art spread all over Western Europe. The gothic sacred structural design is notable for its lightness (flying buttresses) and tall structures which were achieved through the development of firm architectural features which included...

Words: 691 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Romanesque vs Gothic Architectural Style

...Running head: ROMANESQUE VS. GOTHIC ARCHITECTURE 1 Romanesque vs. Gothic Architecture WGU Humanities IWT 1 ROMANESQUE VS. GOTHIC ARCHITECTURE Romanesque vs. Gothic Architecture Romanesque architecture, one of the most important styles of European art that developed during the Middle Ages in a time of heavy religious fervor. During the Romanesque period devout Christians would undertake long pilgrimages in order to visit and venerate the relics of saints and martyrs. Large numbers of people moved from one monastery to another creating travel routes which would later become trade routes. Because of this large influx of people, churches were built large enough to hold hundreds of people. Romanesque architecture style was one of the first to build entirely with stone materials instead of wood because stone was the only thing that would support the heavy roofs. The 2 structure was massive, boxy and low to the ground. Round Roman arches, thick walls, and small windows are typical of the buildings. All Romanesque architecture was built to make a statement of power and wealth. Romanesque buildings were not just churches, abbeys, and monasteries; they also encapsulated the castles. These castles were used as power sources and were built to be sturdy and long lasting during times of war. This meant that buildings were serviceable, durable, defensive, and strong, but not very creative. The Gothic style grew out of the Romanesque architectural style, when both prosperity and...

Words: 1308 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

How Architecture and Literary Styles Affect the Western Culture

...Romanesque architecture and Gothic architecture styles as well as literature writings of Dante was two of many great "first" ofthe High Middle Age period that impacted the Western legacies. Romanesque and Gothic architecture is very popular styles in Christian churches and bulidings. The literary writing of Dante, the arthur of one of his most famous writings, the Divine Comedy, is known for creating a pathway for many, many poets to be creative and very detailed with writing. Both of these "first "legacies have impacted not only the western civilaiztion but artists and builings all over the word. Romanesque architecture and Gothic architecture period both occurred during the Middle Ages with the Gothic period taking place during the later half. Gothic and Romanesque architecture were related in many ways, but they also contrasted in style too. Over time, masons began to test the waters and push the limits. They thought of new ways to add lighting and ways to allow more height to the building without it being to heavy and weak. Many of the reasons for the change in styles had a lot to do with society and the changes it faced. There was a greater intensity occurring in piety and literature. The Gothic style embodied this new urban society. Romanesque and Gothic shared similar characteristics, but Gothic architecture was a greater departure from its previous predecessor. Each of these eras had their own structural innovations that changed the way architects and builders designed...

Words: 811 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Gothic Architecture

...Gothic Architecture can be viewed as the skyscrapers of the medieval era with the sheer height of the buildings and the slender windows and columns adding to the verticality of the buildings. In his book 'Gothic' Prof. Dr Bruno Klein enlightens the readers that Gothic Architecture was not entirely initiated with the construction of St. Denis by Abbot Sugar but rather played as major catalyst for the movement which had slowly started to appear in the late Romanesque movement. By instigating a search through Klein's work a better understanding of the Gothic movement can be achieved. This paper will discuss in detail factors that contributed towards the Gothic movement and how the movement was not initiated by the construction of St. Denise by Abbot Sugar but rather a few years before hand. By exploring factors such as political, social and cultural beliefs and values that influence the dramatic change that helped emerge the gothic movement and differ it from its predecessor. Aim of this paper is showcase and illuminate the differences between Gothic and Romanesque Architecture but also how past Architectural styles transcends over time rather than stop with the Architectural movement ends and moves to another. The fact that the founding stone of Gothic Architecture was laid on the july 14 1140 can be disputed (Toman and Bednorz 2007, pg 28). According to Prof. Dr. Bruno Klein the rebuilding of the choir of the Benedictine church of St. Denis was begun at the influence of Abbot...

Words: 2282 - Pages: 10

Premium Essay

Tryrani

...Check Art What are the differences that separate Romanesque and Gothic architecture ? What made Italian Gothic architecture unique Romanesque architecture was influenced not only by early Christian and Byzantine styles but by native forms as well . Although Romanesque varied from region to region , there were some common characteristics . The use of the round arch was a major feature of the sober and dignified style Towers are prominent features of many Romanesque churches . In addition there were many regional differences . In Italy , Romanesque is distinguished by the use of marble for facing the walls . In northern France , especially Normandy , western facades are flanked by two towers Similar to the architecture of Normandy is the English Romanesque style usually called Norman architecture . German Romanesque , or Rhenish churches often have both western and eastern apses . On the other hand gothic architecture originated and attained its highest development in northern France . It is distinguished mainly by the use of the pointed arch , traceried stained-glass windows , and elaborate ribbed vaults . The lightness , delicacy , and soaring height of the Gothic cathedral were possible because of the pointed arch , ribbed vaults , and flying buttresses . Use of the pointed arch with the Romanesque rib and panel vaulting method possible Gothic vaults of great height and span . With the weight of the multiribbed vault supported by buttresses , the cathedral became a stone...

Words: 311 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Iwt1 Task 1

...The Classical Period The Classical Art Period consisted of ancient Greek and Roman art and fell between the years 900 BC and 31 BC. During the Classical Period, Athens and Sparta were dominant cities in the Greek region. These cities were suspicious of one another, but managed to live peacefully together until the 5th century, BC. Cultural and political differences between the two cities caused a rivalry to form. The rivalry was eventually quelled after a brutal war which ultimately ended in the demise of both cities and the rise of Macedonia as the dominant power in the region. Eventually, the social structure in the Classical Period became somewhat of a democracy and an open society which we have emulated in the United States (“History of Greece: Classical Greece”, 2014). Many other wars occurred over the course of the Classical Period, and this culture of war contributed to the realism of the art of the time. The brutality of war and the effects it had on Greek society inspired artists to focus on man, rational thinking, and logic (“History of Greece: Classical Greece”, 2014). Greek artists in the 5th century, BC began to realistically imitate humans and animals through art (Boardman, 2012). These Greek artists gained a better understanding of anatomy and the human body’s mechanics, giving them the ability to realistically render the human form in multiple positions without appearing awkward. Logic was valued over emotion in sculptures. This means that facial expressions...

Words: 1518 - Pages: 7

Free Essay

Art Through the Ages

...* Architecture Paper * HUM/266 April 16, 2013 * Architecture Paper * This paper will compare the architecture of Classical Greek temple such as the Parthenon and medieval Gothic cathedrals such as Salisbury or Amiens cathedrals. The paper will also include the date each structure was built, the main purpose it was built and the type of architecture. The major architectural innovations in each style and the obvious symbolism of each style will also be included. The integral sculptures will also be included and which style the author personally find more interesting, appealing and why. The Acropolis of Athens is a complex of buildings on top of the Acropolis rock watching over Athens. The most recognizable building on the Acropolis is the Parthenon; this structure is one of the most iconic structures in the world. The building is old but stand strong and continue to influence modern-day architecture every western country. Under the leadership of Pericles, the Parthenon was built sometime between the years 447-432 BCE. The structure was designed to be the focus of the Acropolis building complex and was dedicated to the goddess Athena Pallas. The building project of the Acropolis was to demonstrate the political and cultural achievements of Athens and Greece and to accommodate the enormous statue of Athena that was made of gold and ivory by Pheidias. The Parthenon continues to marvel anyone who visits the historic site. Earthquakes, wars, vandalism and looting...

Words: 867 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Middle Ages Architecture

...are Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic. Arriving in the spotlight first is Byzantine art. Originating from the Byzantine Empire, this style's art revolved around mosaics and icons. Usually wooden, icons were small paintings of holy figures such as Berlinghiero's "Madonna and Child". Byzantine art did not display these saints in grandeur and color but in still, flat forms, often...

Words: 454 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Art Analysis

... the Romanesque capital under consideration belongs to a set of four which had been installed in the cloister of the monastery of Saint – Rémi. This monastery of Saint – Rémi is located in the geographical region of Remis, France, Europse. Constructed using the medium of limestone, the dimensions of this piece of art are; 13 x 21 x 21 inches. Even though the cloister had been destroyed and reconstructed during the seventeenth century, the surviving remains of the monument which were found in the Reims region which corresponded to this Romanesque capital were utilized as an aid for the demonstration of its origin. On the whole, a general analysis of this piece of art indicates the expertise of this art form, particularly in terms of the establishment of an appropriate balance of proportions while ensuring that the aspect of delicacy is maintained. Moreover, a general observation of the Capital from the Cloister of the Monastery of Saint – Remi portrays the perfection which has been maintained in the right selection of shapes and forms. Also, the way the different patterns have been carved into it, throws light on the originality, artistry, perfectionism and the skills of the carver. Specifically addressing the differences between the Romanesque capitals and the classical Roman capitals, it is generally observed that irrespective of the fact that the art form of Romanesque is fundamentally inspired by the Roman architecture, it is generally more gothic in nature...

Words: 681 - Pages: 3

Free Essay

Romanesque Europe

...Compare and Contrast Romanesque Europe to Gothic Europe The Romanesque period was around 1100 BC and Gothic Europe was around 1200 BC. The pilgrimage churches in France, Saint-Sernin, Toulouse were Nave and aisles were made wider to accommodate increased pilgrim traffic and the pilgrims were able to worship in the radiating chapels without interrupting regular church services and activities. The exterior of Gothic churches were frequently adorned with sculpture. The tympanum, which is the recessed usually triangular face of a pediment within the frame made by the upper and lower cornices, sculptures celebrate the majesty of Christ. The England Durham Cathedral construction features the first example of a ribbed groin vault placed over a three-story nave. A nave is the hub of a wheel. To buttress the nave, quadrant arches were used in place of groin vaults in the tribune. The Gothic Cathedral has a sharply pointed ornament capping the piers or flying buttresses. The Nave arcade was a series of arches supported by piers separating the nave from the aisles. It also features a compound pier with responds: also called a cluster pier; a pier with a group, or cluster, of attached shafts, or responds, extending to the springing of the vaults. In Romanesque Europe the Normandy and England Bayeux Tapestry is unique in Romanesque are because it depicts a contemporaneous historical event – Normandy’s invasion and conquest of England in 1066. The England Salisbury Cathedral has...

Words: 283 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

How Did Medieval Architecture Break The Unity In Western Europe?

...Different cultural patterns and styles began to merge and take on new forms. A common theme throughout medieval art is religion. Architecture focuses mainly on the construction of churches, where Christians would come to worship. Throughout time, the style of church architecture transforms from being relatively simple and true to the balanced proportions of Roman buildings, to the churches that extend to a much greater height and increase in complexity. Christian iconography was another major form of art during the medieval times. While this was a consistent style throughout the time period, the method of representing Christian figures evolved. The three majors of style of art that reflect the ideology of medieval art include Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic style. The Byzantine Style comes from the Byzantine Empire, which survived the fall of the Roman Empire in 476 (Jarus). The architecture from...

Words: 1359 - Pages: 6

Free Essay

The Medieval World (Costume)

...The Medieval World The Middle Age * Byzantine Empire c.300-1200 ce * Barbarian Migration-Merovingian * Carolingian c.750-1000 ce * Romanesque c.900-1150 ce * Gothic * Burgundian & Early Renaissance OCCIDENT - Roman Empire ORIENT - Byzantine Empire The Byzantin Empire (Religious time - covering more skin) 300-1200 apr. J.-C. Women Costume | Tunic and Stola * Long sleeves, belted. Ankle-length, worn over an under-tunic | Layering Layering | Paludamentum | * Mantle, cape: for upper class, semi-circular worn over tunic pinned on the right shoulder with fibula(Purple - on the picture) | Maniakis | * Large woven embroidered and jeweled necklace (similar to Egyptians) | Men Costume | Tunic | * Long sleeves, belted. Knee or ankle-length | Dalmatic Tunic | * Tunic with wide sleeves reserved for rules and dignitaries | Paludamentum & Chlamy | * Mantle, cape (as women) short version called chlamys | Braires | * Fitted trousers (like leggings) worn under tunic | Women & Men Crown, Stephanos * Crown/diadem worn by royalty at official ceremonies Pendulia * Strings of pearls or jewels attached to the crown Fibula * Still functional, evolved as a jewelry piece Tablion * Decorative applique to the left of the paludamentum *Communicate status! *Colour indicate rank Patterns * Weaving of complicated colored and metallic patterns inspired by...

Words: 999 - Pages: 4

Free Essay

The Gothic Age

...The Gothic Age Possible Introduction Standing before a piece of Gothic art, whether it is a painting, sculpture or a cathedral, you are drawn to a visual exploration like none you have ever seen.  Where does the art start and end? The style of Gothic art draws the eye's attention at every turn. A choir of medieval spiritual beliefs is told in art, singing harmoniously in a language from long ago, which eludes us at the frontier of our memory reminding us of stories told throughout the years. History of Gothic Art Gothic is the name given to the style of architecture, painting, and sculpture which flourished in Western Europe, mainly France and England, between the 12th and 15th centuries. The label of 'Gothic' was coined in Italy, during the Renaissance, as a derogatory reference to the art and architecture of these earlier centuries. The defamation was a comparison to the earlier Goth barbarians. Goths were an ancient Teutonic people, who were an important power in the Roman world from the 3rd to the 6th century AD. The entire Goth population divided into the Ostrogoths and the Visigoths, aligned themselves with the Roman Empire, and set out to conquer and rule. It is during this timeframe that the artistic influence of the Goths took hold and began to spread, mixing Gothic and Roman artistic styles. With the passing centuries, Gothic became more clearly associated with the closing era of the medieval age. In time, the separating point between...

Words: 1806 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Gothic Revival and All of Its Glory

...Gothic Revival and All of its Glory Architecture, just like fashion, set trends that change as time goes by. The revolution of style occurs to become concurrent to the fast pacing growth of technology throughout the world. At present, the style that governs and favored upon by most architects is that of contemporary or of modern design. Everywhere you look, one can see buildings made of glass and steel with forms that exhibits simplicity and openness. But it was not always that way, before the increasing popularity of modern architecture, a style characterized by its rejection of the classical approach, became apparent in today’s time, there was a prevailing architectural movement during the 19th century called Gothic Revival that encompasses all the other neoclassical styles in that period. Gothic Revival that is also known as Victorian Gothic or neo-Gothic architecture got its name from the medieval Gothic Architecture it was influenced to. Back in the Medieval era, the style wasn’t referred to as ‘Gothic’ yet, it was only during the period of the Renaissance that the term became commonly used by the people, which was started by Italian architect, historian and writer Giorgio Vasari, deemed all buildings of the middle Ages to be that of having a rude and barbaric quality because it does not conform to the traditional designs of classical Greek and Roman, and also thought of as having an association with the savage Goths, the people who were responsible for the fall of the...

Words: 2012 - Pages: 9

Premium Essay

Prenatal and Postpartum Scenario

...Renaissance period. Byzantine Art was the name given to the style of architecture used in very early Middle Ages Art. This period was also known as the Dark Ages ( 410 AD - 1066 AD ). The advances of art in the Middle Ages was due to the changes in more liberal religious beliefs and the efforts and the pioneering art styles developed by the artists, sculptors and painters of the Medieval period of the Middle Ages. The Later Middle Ages saw the emergence of Gothic Art and the advances of art in the Middle Ages. During this period, artists broke away from the influences of the Byzantium and Romanesque art style. It developed into Gothic and Middle Ages visual art. Middle Ages art increased from the type of art depicted in Pietistic painting (religious art) in the form of illuminated manuscripts, mosaics and fresco paintings in churches. Christian Art - based on religion Romanesque Art Approximately 1000 A.D. to the 13th century. Spread across the whole of Catholic Europe Influenced by Byzantine art Gothic Art developed out of Romanesque art in the mid-12th century spread to all of Western Europe consisted of sculpture, panel painting, stained glass, and fresco. Byzantine Art had more of a symbolic approach developed out of the art of the Roman Empire iconography was created. The artists and painters were founders of the movement towards greater realism that culminated in the Renaissance art style. Middle Ages Art saw changes that included: ◾Brighter colors ◾Sculptures ◾Metal work...

Words: 494 - Pages: 2