10.3 Ottonian Metalwork and Sculpture

Ottonian art dazzled with precious metals, gemstones, and intricate techniques. From gold chalices to bronze doors, these works showcased religious devotion and imperial power. Craftsmen used repoussé, filigree, and niello to create stunning pieces that still amaze us today.

Iconography in Ottonian art blended Christian themes with symbols of royal authority. Crucifixes, Madonnas, and saints appeared alongside eagles and crowns. This mix of religious and imperial imagery reflected the close ties between church and state in medieval Europe.

Materials, Techniques, and Functions

Materials and techniques of Ottonian art

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• Precious metals (gold, silver) widely used in Ottonian metalwork enhanced luxury and prestige
• Bronze and copper employed for larger objects provided durability and malleability
• Gemstones and enamels adorned metalwork added color and symbolic meaning
• Repoussé technique involved hammering metal from reverse side created raised designs
• Chasing method worked metal from front refined details and textures
• Filigree utilized tiny beads or twisted threads produced intricate patterns
• Niello inlay technique created black designs contrasted with metal surfaces
• Stone (limestone, sandstone) carved for architectural elements and freestanding sculptures
• Wood carved for crucifixes and liturgical furnishings allowed for larger, lighter pieces
• Ivory carved for small-scale, intricate objects prized for its fine grain and luster

Iconography in Ottonian metalwork

• Liturgical objects (chalices, patens, reliquaries) decorated with religious scenes and symbols
• Decorative book covers featured elaborate metalwork enhanced manuscript prestige
• Imperial regalia (crowns, scepters) incorporated symbols of power and divine right
• Architectural elements (capitals, reliefs) adorned with religious and allegorical imagery
• Freestanding sculptures (crucifixes, Madonna figures) served as focal points for devotion
• Liturgical furnishings (altars, pulpits) embellished with symbolic imagery supported rituals

Iconography, Symbolism, and Influences

Influences on Ottonian sculpture

• Christological scenes (Crucifixion, Resurrection) depicted key moments in Christ's life
• Marian themes (Virgin and Child) emphasized Mary's role in Christian theology
• Saints and apostles portrayed in metalwork and sculpture served as intercessors and models
• Imperial portraits in metalwork and sculpture legitimized rulers' authority
• Allegorical figures represented virtues or regions personified abstract concepts
• Cross symbolized salvation central to Christian iconography
• Vine motifs represented Christ as the True Vine illustrated spiritual nourishment
• Lamb symbolized Christ's sacrifice evoked themes of redemption
• Eagle represented imperial power linked rulers to divine authority
• Crown symbolized divine right to rule reinforced monarchical legitimacy
• Hand of God (Dextera Dei) indicated divine approval sanctioned earthly rule
• Classical revival incorporated naturalistic human forms and acanthus leaf motifs
• Carolingian influence continued metalworking techniques and manuscript cover designs
• Byzantine elements included use of gold, enamel, and Eastern-style iconography

Patronage of Ottonian art

• Imperial workshops established to produce high-quality metalwork and sculpture
• Bishops commissioned liturgical objects and church furnishings enhanced ecclesiastical prestige
• Art used to legitimize imperial power and enhance church authority
• Metalwork and sculpture promoted dynastic continuity and specific cult objects
• Otto III commissioned Lothar Cross showcased imperial patronage
• Henry II sponsored Bamberg Apocalypse cover demonstrated royal support for manuscript arts
• Bishop Bernward of Hildesheim commissioned bronze doors exemplified ecclesiastical patronage