Early Medieval Europe Flashcards
Fibulae
A broach or pin used to fasten clothing. Status symbols for elite patrons. Highly decorative design.
Cloisonne
Technique of decorating metal objects with colored enamel by creating compartments or cloisons within the metal.
Purse cover from the Sutton Hoo ship burial
Abstract interlace with animal figures is the hallmark of early medieval art.
Viking ship burial, Oseburg
Carved wood with interlaced animals. Contained the remains of two women, 14 horses, three dogs, and an ox. Also likely contained a treasure of jewelry and metalwork.
Wood portal of the stave church
Intertwining animal and plant deocaration.
Lindisfarne Gospels
Contains several ornamental pages. Features a cross-inscribed carpet page which marries Christian imagery with the animal and interlace style.
Saint Matthew from Lindisfarne Gospels
Portraits of the four evangelists appear.
San Juan Bautista
Small, three-aisled basilican church was dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. It features three square apses and an entrance portal crowned by a horseshoe arch.
Saint Matthew form the Coronation Gospels
Light shade and perspective in this representation.
The Ebbo Gospels
Energy approaching frenzy
Saint Matthew from the Ebbo Gospels
Gospel author writes frantically and the folds of his drapery writhe and vibrate. The landscape also rears up alive.
Utrecht Psalter
Drawings are rich in anecdotal detail and show figures acting out.
Lindau Gospels
Lavishly decorated book cover made of gold and jewels.
Palatine Chapel of Charlemagne
Plan based on San Vitale. Architect omitted the apse-like extensions. Interior has simple massive geometric form. Features cylindrical towers with spiral staircases flanking the entrance portal.
Abbey Church
A monumental western facade incorporating two towers.
