French Gothic Ivories: Material Theologies and the Sculptor's Craft

This book explores the golden century of Gothic ivory sculpture (1230-1330) in its material, theological, and artistic contexts, tracing the journey of ivory tusks from intercontinental trade routes to medieval Paris and the altars and private chapels where they were venerated. It also studies the rich social lives and uses of a diverse range of art works fashioned from ivory, offering new insights into the resonances that ivory sculpture held for their makers and viewers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This comprehensive volume delves into the captivating golden century of Gothic ivory sculpture, spanning from 1230 to 1330. Authored by Sarah Guérin, it offers a fresh perspective by examining the material, theological, and artistic aspects of these intricate carvings. Through a wealth of new sources and interpretations, Guérin charts the progressive development and profound resonances expressed in these small-scale masterpieces.

Guérin takes us on a journey tracing the origins of ivory tusks, from the intercontinental trade routes that brought them to northern Europe, to the skilled artisans' workbenches in medieval Paris. She also explores the diverse social lives andusages of a wide array of ivory art pieces, including standalone statuettes, diptychs, tabernacles, and altarpieces. By offering fresh insights into the profound meanings and emotional connections these sculptures held for their makers and viewers, Guérin's study contributes significantly to our understanding of the history of materials, craftsmanship, and later medieval devotional practices.

This captivating volume is a must-read for anyone interested in art history, medieval culture, and the intricate interplay between materials, faith, and artistic expression.

Weight: 1420g
Dimension: 287 x 223 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781316511008