Written Report of Medieval Period

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THE MEDIEVAL PERIOD

- The medieval period refers to the time between the fall of the Western Roman Empire
in the 5th century and the beginning of the Renaissance in the 14th century. During this
period, art was heavily influenced by the Catholic Church and focused primarily on
religious themes. Some of the key characteristics of medieval art include stylized
figures, richly decorated manuscripts, and intricate architectural designs in cathedrals
and castles. The medieval period is divided into two: Early medieval and late medieval.

EARLY MEDIEVAL

The early medieval period also known as the Early Middle Ages or the Dark Ages,
spanned from the 5th to the 10th century. During this time, the art forms were
predominantly influenced by the migration of Germanic tribes and the rise of
Christianity. Here are a few examples of art forms from this period:

1. Illuminated Manuscripts: One of the most prominent art forms of the early
medieval period was the creation of illuminated manuscripts. These were
handwritten books, often religious texts, adorned with intricate illustrations and
decorative motifs. A famous example is the Book of Kells, an illuminated Gospel
manuscript created around the 9th century.

https://www.worldhistory.org/Book_of_Kells/#:~:text=Definition&text=The%20Book%20o
f%20Kells%20(c,and%20majesty%20of%20the%20illustrations.
2. Metalwork: The early medieval period saw the production of exquisite
metalwork, including jewelry, weaponry, and decorative objects. The Sutton Hoo helmet,
discovered in England, is a remarkable example of the intricate
metalwork craftsmanship of this time.

https://www.britishmuseum.org/blog/eighty-years-and-more-sutton-hoo

3. Carolingian Art: The Carolingian Empire, under the rule of Charlemagne,


witnessed a revival in art and culture. Carolingian art combined classical influences with
Germanic traditions. The Palace Chapel of Charlemagne at Aachen in Germany
showcases the architectural style of this period.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palatine_Chapel,_Aachen
THE LATE MEDIEVAL

The late medieval period also known as the High Middle Ages, occurred from the 11th to the 14th century.
During this time, there were significant advancements in art and architecture, particularly in relation to the
Gothic style. Here are some notable characteristics and examples of art from the late medieval period:

1. Gothic Architecture: The late medieval period saw the rise of Gothic architecture, characterized by
pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. The Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris and the Chartres
Cathedral in France are iconic examples of Gothic architecture.

https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/81/#:~:text=Notre%2DDame%20de%20Chartres%20Cathedral,in%20all%20medi
eval%20Western%20Christianity.

2. Stained Glass Windows: Stained glass windows became an important element in late medieval art.
These windows depicted biblical stories and religious figures, using vibrant colors and intricate details. The
Sainte-Chapelle in Paris is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sainte-Chapelle
3. International Gothic Style: Towards the end of the medieval period, a new art style known as the
International Gothic emerged. This style emphasized elegance, delicacy, and naturalistic details. The Wilton
Diptych, a portable altarpiece from England, is a notable example of the International Gothic style.

https://mainlymuseums.com/post/706/a-treasure-of-the-national-gallery-the-wilton-diptych-richard-II-and-Late-
Medieval-Kingship/

4. Book of Hours: The late medieval period witnessed the production of Book of Hours, which were
personalized prayer books for private devotion. These books often featured illuminated miniatures and intricate
borders. The Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry is a famous example of a Book of Hours.

https://smarthistory.org/limbourg-brothers-tres-riches-heures-du-duc-de-berry/.

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