Decolonising art history

Question 1

Cultural Hybridity

Answer 1

The idea that cultural connections between different geographical locations allowed for the transfer of culteral ideas. Many artworks show signs of influence by other cultures.

Question 2

Example of cultural hybridity: Weeping virgin

Answer 2

Left: Made in France, central focus is a pannel painting of the sorrowful virgin however around the frame is arabis inscriptions showing Mamluk detailing. This tells us about the provinance of the painting Mumluk egypt. It is an illuminated manuscript by Georges Trubert. Thr reason it has pseudo arambic text and mamluk emblems is becuase of the prestige they bring to the piece.

Righ: Sorrowful virgin made in Mexico from thousands of small feathers. Methods and materials specific to South America.

Relates to the juxtaposition of different cultures and cultural ideas.

Question 3

15th Century Venice: How did trade allow travel, give a example

Answer 3

Venetian merchants have taken all over the world, as far as China. Affecting the city’s economic prosperity and cultural identity.

Venicce established links with Constantinople (Byzantine empire) the influence of Islamic architecture can be seen in venice.

Question 4

Mehmet II portrait

Answer 4

3/4 profile, enclosed in reaissence arch- inscription meaning conqeror of the world. Luxuriously embroidered and bejewelled tapestry. Belini given private acess to the palace of Mehmet II, his placement gives a sense of death. Floating crowns symbols of his territorial power.