12th century

Definition

The 12th century was a period marked by significant cultural, political, and artistic transformations in Europe, particularly characterized by the emergence of the Gothic style. This era saw a shift in artistic expression, with an emphasis on naturalism and narrative storytelling in sculpture, which became evident in the design of cathedrals and other religious buildings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 12th century saw the birth of Gothic architecture, which was heavily influenced by the desire for more light and verticality in church design.
2. Sculpture in this era transitioned from the more rigid forms of Romanesque art to more dynamic and expressive figures, particularly seen in jamb figures that adorned church portals.
3. This century was also a time of increased pilgrimage and religious fervor, leading to more elaborate narrative reliefs that depicted biblical stories.
4. The use of stone as a primary material became prominent in sculpture during this time, allowing for more intricate designs compared to previous eras.
5. The introduction of universities in the 12th century fostered an environment where artistic and intellectual ideas could flourish, further influencing the development of Gothic art.

Review Questions

• How did the transition from Romanesque to Gothic sculpture reflect changes in societal values during the 12th century?
  • The shift from Romanesque to Gothic sculpture during the 12th century mirrored broader societal changes, as communities increasingly valued individual expression and narrative depth. This transition resulted in sculptures that were not only more naturalistic but also more emotive, reflecting a growing interest in human experience and storytelling. As people became more engaged with their faith and surroundings, artists began to create works that connected directly with viewers through relatable narratives.
• Analyze how the architectural features of Gothic cathedrals influenced the development of sculptural forms in the 12th century.
  • The architectural innovations of Gothic cathedrals significantly influenced sculptural forms by providing larger surfaces for decoration and a greater emphasis on verticality. The incorporation of elements like pointed arches and ribbed vaults created new opportunities for sculptors to enhance their work with dynamic compositions that drew the eye upwards. As a result, jamb figures became not just decorative but also integral components of the cathedral's storytelling function, often depicting saints or biblical scenes that complemented the themes expressed in the architecture itself.
• Evaluate the impact of illuminated manuscripts on the visual culture of the 12th century and its relationship to Gothic sculpture.
  • Illuminated manuscripts had a profound impact on the visual culture of the 12th century by setting standards for detail, narrative clarity, and stylistic innovation that resonated within Gothic sculpture. The meticulous artistry found in these manuscripts inspired sculptors to adopt similar techniques in their reliefs and figures, leading to a richer visual language characterized by intricate details and expressive storytelling. The relationship between these two art forms reflects a broader cultural movement towards heightened emotional engagement and narrative complexity during this transformative period.

Related terms

Gothic Architecture: A style of architecture that flourished in Europe during the 12th to 16th centuries, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.

Romanesque Art: An artistic style prevalent from the 10th to the 12th centuries, known for its solid forms, thick walls, and semi-circular arches, which preceded the Gothic style.

Illuminated Manuscripts: Handwritten books that were decorated with gold or silver, vivid colors, and intricate designs during the Middle Ages, particularly significant in the 12th century for their rich detail and storytelling.