The Misunderstood Medieval Art: Debunking the Myth

When one thinks of European art from the Middle Ages, the common perception is of 'bad' or 'primitive' art. This article aims to debunk this myth and shed light on the rich, intricate, and multifaceted art from this period. Through a retrospective lens, we will explore various aspects of medieval art, from its painted masterpieces to intricate manuscripts, grand architectural structures, and even early forms of written literature.

Why is European Art from the Middle Ages Often Misrepresented?

The widespread notion that European art from the Middle Ages is inferior arises from a few key misconceptions. First and foremost, it is often assumed that the art of the Middle Ages is comparable to the highly advanced and realistic art of the Hellenistic period around a millennium earlier. However, this comparison is not only unfair but also ignores the distinct aesthetic and cultural values of the medieval period.

The Realities of Medieval Art

During the Middle Ages, the majority of art was funded by the Church and was focused on religious iconography. These works often depicted religious subjects in a stylized, symbolic manner rather than realistically. It is important to understand that artistic styles change with time, and the abstract and symbolic nature of medieval art reflects the art trends of that era. Just because the art is not realistic does not mean that the artists were incapable of creating realistic works. They simply chose a different artistic approach that was in vogue during that time.

Scraping Beyond the Surface: Artistic Masterpieces of the Middle Ages

The first day of archaeology class was a revelation: our professor emphasized that the way art was created could not be equated with the ability of the people to create realistic images. The Middle Ages had its own artistic aesthetics and techniques that were celebrated in specific forms like oil painting and intricate illuminated manuscripts.

The Diversity of Medieval Art

Defining the Middle Ages can be quite subjective, as it spans a vast range of time and cultural changes. The traditional definition places the end of the Middle Ages between 1490 and 1517, while politically, it can be seen as ending with the Reformation. This means that notable works by artists like Jan van Eyck, Giotto, and Hieronymous Bosch fall within the medieval period.

A good example is Jan van Eyck's painting "The Lamb of God." At first glance, it may seem typical of medieval art, but it is actually a highly intricate and detailed piece. Each face in the painting is derived from real people, and it is one of the earliest landscape paintings. The mixture of symbolic and naturalistic elements makes it a remarkable work, not a 'bad' one as many might assume.

The Evolution of Artistic Techniques

The invention or adoption of oil painting by artists like Jan van Eyck was a revolutionary step. This technique allowed artists to create works of art that could survive over time, unlike frescoes which gradually fade. Therefore, the so-called 'bad' art from the Middle Ages is actually the result of different mediums and aesthetic preferences of the time.

More Than Visual Art

Medieval art is not limited to visual arts alone. The intricate caskets, such as the Franks' Casket now housed in the British Museum, showcase the intricacy of 'dark ages' craftsmanship. Books like the Lindisfarne Gospels and the Lichfield Gospels are also masterpieces. In terms of architecture, there are several beautiful examples, including Lichfield Cathedral, renowned for its grandeur, and Westminster Abbey, which epitomizes the grandeur of the period.

Music and Literature of the Middle Ages

Much of the medieval music has been lost due to the lack of notation, but pieces like Piae Cantiones are believed to be of medieval origin. Finally, the written literature of the Middle Ages is rich and varied, with works such as The Romance of the Rose, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales. Above all, Dante's The Divine Comedy stands out as a quintessential work of this period.

Conclusion

The art and culture of the Middle Ages are often misjudged or misunderstood. From its vibrant visual arts to its intricate manuscripts, grand architectural feats, and rich literature, the Middle Ages had much to offer. By appreciating the art of this era within its historical and cultural context, we can better understand and appreciate its true significance.