ROMANESQUE ART

Theories & Interpretations

• Romanesque ar and architecture was deeply intertwined with Christian theology. Churches were designed to symbolize the heavens above, with the use of light, space, and ornamentation meant to create a sacred environment.

• Romanesque art served an educational purpose as majority of people were illiterate, depicting biblical stories, saints, and moral lessons.

• The growth of pilgrimage had a profound impact as towns would construct elaborate churches to draw people to them. The construction of the churches was often funded by local lords or monarchs, symbolizing their wealth, piety, and influence.

• Romanesque art was closely associated with the veneration of relics.

• The Romanesque period was marked by a heightened awareness of the Apocalypse with depictions of the Last Judgement, the Four Horseman, and the Book of Revelation. It was to remind the faithful of the transient earthly life and the importance of spiritual readiness.

Style Characteristics

• Romanesque depictions of figures emphasizes clarity and spirituality over naturalism. Figures are stylized, with exaggerated features, large eyes, and rigid poses.

• Maunscripts are characterized by vivid colors, intricate patterns, and stylized figures

• Figures are often depicted according to a hierarchical scale, often Christ or the Virgin Mary as largest and in the center to show their spiritual significance

• Romanesque metalwork included ornate reliquaries (designed to house or display relics) and would often take the shape of a variety of shapes.