5.04 Romanesque Metalwork and Wood Sculpture

One of the most famous pieces of Romanesque metalwork is the baptismal font by the master Rainer of Huy (ca. early 12C). The bronze basin rests on twelve oxen (cf. I Kings 7:23-25), with the Baptism of Christ displayed on the upper portion. What is most interesting about this work is the classical style it reflects. Note the rounded (not angular), idealized figures and the heavy drapery. This work, no doubt, truly bears the distinction of being Romanesque.

"Sedes Sapientiae"

Although freestanding statuary was still rare in the Romanesque period (in following the Second Commandment's prohibition against making idols), small scale images of Christ, the Virgin Mary and the saints were frequently used as altar pieces. One such work is a small, wooden statuette of the Virgin and Child (ca. late 12C), known as the Morgan Madonna. This particular type of statuette is known as a "sedes sapientiae" ("Throne of Wisdom"), as Christ, the embodiment of Holy Wisdom, sits on the lap (or "throne") of the Virgin Mary.

Reliquaries (receptacles used to keep sacred relics) were another common form of Romanesque metalworking. Our selection is the the reliquary of Pope Alexander, who was made a saint after his death. This work is extremely interesting because it displays the variety of artistic sources that were available to the Romanesque artist.

The idealized portrait (made from silver repousse and gilt bronze) certainly reminds us of the idealized imperial portraits of ancient Rome (cf. Augustus Prima Porta, Lesson 3.18). Also the plaques that surround the reliquary box were clearly influenced by the Byzantine style, while the incrustation of gems and the various floral and geometric designs find their origin in the Early Medieval style.

Reliquary of Saint (Pope) Alexander (ca. 12 C) by JRM

• Reliquary of Saint (Pope) Alexander (ca. 12 C)

After you have reviewed your cumulative notes, complete the online assessment 5.04. Remember that your first submission should be done with a time constraint and without notes.