Romanesque art and architectural styles appear in monastaries.
Romanesque art is classified as the art of western Europe between approximately A.D. 1000 to 1200. Because of the geographic region and time period in which it surfaced, Romanesque art was heavily influenced by the Roman Catholic Church. The period's paintings and sculptures, the most prevalent forms of Romanesque art, often appeared in churches and monasteries.The period is also known for its architectural style, which paralleled the art in many ways.
Historical Context
The spread of monasticism during the Middle Ages was the driving force behind Romanesque art, which surfaced in 10th century. Romanesque art received its name due to its combination of Roman, Ottonian, Byzantine and Germanic influences. The period's art and architecture lasted until 1150, when Gothic style came into popularity. Romanesque art and architecture are prevalent in England, France, Italy and Germany, but can be found throughout most western European countries.
Sculpture
Stained glass became a staple of Roman Catholic Churches.
Because the largest patrons of Romanesque were monastic institutions, much of the art classified as Romanesque art is Biblical depictions or symbols.These ornate statues where often used to decorate doorways or adorn walls. Sculptures of stone, metal and ivory flourished during the period, and Romanesque architecture was almost always made of stone. Stained glass also originated during this time, as the oldest known stain glass relic dates back to the 10th century.
Painting
Wall paintings, also called Frescoes, adorn churches throughout western Europe.
The large walls and domed ceilings of churches and monasteries served as the perfect canvases for the intricate biblical portrayals common to Romanesque art. These large wall paintings are often referred to as frescoes. Frescoes of the period are known for being impressive in size and brightly colored. Noah and the ark, the seven deadly sins, the Virgin Mary, the fall of man, and the creation of man are themes famous for their inspiration of Romanesque art.
Architecture
Inspired by Roman influence, Romanesque architecture is characterized by arches.
Romanesque-style castles and churches are prevalent in Italy, France, England and Germany. Romanesque architecture inherited many characteristics from Roman buildings.They both are characterized by columns, barrel vaults, apses and, most importantly, arches. Romanesque building typically had very few windows, causing them to have dark interiors. Part of what made Romanesque buildings so distinctive was the close relationship between the art and the architecture. Many of the churches and castles were intricately adorned with sculptures and paintings. Two famous examples of Romanesque architecture are the Vézelay Abbey in France and the Durham Cathedral in England.
