Choose ONE of the following works in the Medieval Galleries on the second floor at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts at 465 Huntington Avenue. Write a double-spaced paper of 3-4 pages (roughly 750-1000 words). Read instructions carefully.
- Spanish (Catalan) Chapel, Santa Maria de Mur, mid-twelfth century (21.1285).
There is an image in Gardner’s 16th edition (12-19). But you must go see the real thing! The damaged scenes at the bottom represent the Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity, Annunciation to the Shepherds and Adoration by the Three Kings. The central window shows the Sacrifice of Cain and Abel, the right window shows the Killing of Abel. The subject of the left-hand window is a mystery. What is your interpretation? In addition to the suggestions for writing given below you might want to consider how the scenes of sacrifice relate to the altar (here think back to the lecture on San Vitale, Ravenna and the Sacrifice of the Mass or Eucharist). It is also important to consider how you respond to the abstract colors and style of the paintings, the scale of the figures, the architectural context and why.
- Large Crucified Christ, Salzburg, c. 1000 (51.1405).
This piece is in the same room as the wall painting (Spanish or Catalan Chapel) on the left wall. Look through the textbook. How does the position of the body and style of this figure its drapery or loincloth, relate to the images of the Crucifixion particularly 8-16, 11-16 and 11-30?
In addition to the suggestions for writing given below you might want to consider how the image of the crucified Christ might have affected the medieval believer. Make sure to explain how the image makes you feel and why.
- Seated Virgin and Child, French provenance Soissons Cathedral, c.1200 (59.701).
This piece is in the room just before you enter the room with the Spanish/Catalan wall paintings described above. How does the representation of the Virgin and Child relate to other three-dimensional images of the Virgin and Child in Art Through the Ages – 12-20 and 13-38? In addition to the suggestions for writing given below you might want to guess how the piece might have been used (we do not know for sure so your thoughts will be welcome) and how the scale, pigment and style of the image might have affected the reaction of the believer. In addition, please write about how you respond to the image.
Very important: please include a drawing of the object. If you are a CFA student make it spectacular. If you are an ordinary mortal just do the best you can. Drawing the object is important because it will slow you down so that you really look. This will help you with your description and analysis.
Suggestions for writing the paper:
You might wish to begin with the title of the piece and its subject and date (footnote the wall panel) then a precise physical description, starting with general observations, before moving on to details. The more details the better.
Make sure that you write about the shapes that compose the figure(s) Do they look real? Are the forms geometric and the colors unnatural or are they realistic – or a blend of the two? How do they affect the viewer? And what about the drapery folds, are they soft and flowing or jagged and geometric? Describe the material(s) of the piece, the technique of production (carved, cast in metal, painted), its condition. Go into detail, where are the abrasions and chips, where has damage eliminated all trace – do not just say ‘poor’! Consider the subjects/ iconography. Does your image/object have a message or symbolic meaning? Is it a successful representation of divinity? (Why or why not?) Does it tell a story? If so, how, simple and direct or complex…Does the age of the piece have an effect on your response? Describe what you see in as much detail and with as much specificity as you can.
Very important – please include a section on your reaction to the image. You are free, indeed encouraged, to use the word ‘I’ when writing on your response to the piece. How does the style (drapery folds, construction of the body, proportions, position, colors…) of the work affect your response? Do you feel disturbed by the image? Do you identify with something in it or does it seem too otherworldly? Does it make you feel contemplative? Does it move you? Do you feel empathy? Does it leave you cold? Does it remind you of something?
This is not a research paper but you are encouraged to make references to the textbook and the wall plaques in the museum. Please footnote or endnote the textbook and wall plaques if you consult or quote them. Und dint furgit too pruf red.
Your grade will be based on the detail of your visual analysis, the depth of your analysis, your observations when you compare the work to other pieces, the thoughtfulness and authenticity of your response the care with which you use descriptive language and of course, your famous sketch of the work.
Papers will be returned in section meetings within a week or left in an envelope in the faculty mailroom in the Department of HAA. If you have questions about this assignment or would be reassured by guidance make sure to see your section head or go to the Writing Center preferably before the Thanksgiving break.
Admission to the MFA is free with Boston University student I.D. The museum is open 10:00 am – 5 pm M. T. S. & Sun. It stays open until 9:45pm Wednesday-Friday – a peaceful time. Call the Museum’s information line for possible changes in hours, directions and other information.
NB: The dates on the wall panels, in the text book and on the study sheets may vary slightly.
