Arts of Ireland and the British Isles, 500-1000

Catalog description

This course explores the art and architecture produced in Ireland, England, and Scotland during the early medieval period, often called the "Golden Age of Insular Art." It was an era of rich cultural exchange during which Irish and continental monks were instrumental in the spread of Christianity throughout the British Isles; Irish settled in Scotland; the Anglo-Saxon kingdom was established in England; and Vikings invaded Ireland and Britain. Arts in all media combined pre-Christian Celtic and Germanic traditions with new Christian forms. Irish monasteries throughout the British Isles were centers of production for sumptuous manuscripts such as the Book of Kells and liturgical vessels including the Ardagh Chalice. Monastic architecture and high crosses will also be considered, as well as secular objects such as aristocratic jewelry.