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Art Speak - Medieval Art
Book of Hours |
This type of book contained prayers appropriate for the hours of the day, and it was used by individuals during the Medieval period for private contemplation and worship.
cathedral |
the cathedral takes its name from the Latin
cathedra (throne or chair), for this important church was the location of a bishop's seat of power
cloisonn� |
vitreous enamel is poured into metal cells or chambers (
cloisons), which results in intricate (and often colorful) designs
diptych |
two panels are joined together to form this object; a
diptych is often used as an altarpiece
icon |
icon is derived from the Greek word for image; it is commonly used to refer to (usually stylized) paintings of the Virgin, Christ, or saints that were created for devotional purposes
millefleurs |
French for a thousand flowers; the word
millefleurs is used to describe a particular type of floral decoration that appears in the background of Gothic tapestries
rose window |
the name for an enormous circular window that is frequently decorated with intricate stained glass designs and tracery;
rose windows adorn several famous Gothic churches, including Chartres Cathedral
Gardner's Art Through the Ages
This classic art history reference book features a comprehensive glossary of art terms and techniques, from
abacus to
zoomorphism. Whether you are interested in ancient art or modernism - or anything in between - the glossary in Gardner's is a great introduction to Art Speak!