Landscape, Materiality and Heritage: An Object Biography

This book explores the changing stories, meanings, locations, uses, and feelings of the Barochan Cross, a ninth-century stone sculpture in Renfrewshire, Scotland, across twelve centuries. It expands the ways in which landscape can be conceptualized, revealing how artefacts can inform future critical thinking about heritage and contribute to theories about material culture and landscape.

Format: Hardback
Length: 148 pages
Publication date: 07 December 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This captivating book delves into the intricate world of a singular artifact, the Barochan Cross, a magnificent stone sculpture dating back to the ninth century, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Renfrewshire, Scotland. Through a comprehensive temporal framework spanning twelve centuries, Tim Edensor explores the ever-evolving narratives, meanings, placements, purposes, and emotional connections associated with this remarkable sculpture. By narrating the shifting ways in which the Barochan Cross has been relocated, utilized, cherished, interpreted, encountered, sensed, replicated, and appropriated, the author presents a sophisticated yet accessible discourse on its evolving relationships with the physical and conceptual landscapes it has inhabited.

In doing so, this book not only broadens the horizons of how landscape can be conceptualized but also sheds light on the profound influence that artifacts can have on shaping future critical thinking about heritage. It makes a significant contribution to theories about material culture and landscape, offering a fresh perspective that challenges traditional understandings and expands our understanding of the intricate interplay between human societies and their environments.

The Barochan Cross serves as a focal point for this exploration, a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic craftsmanship of the past. Through meticulous research and analysis, Edensor uncovers the shifting stories and interpretations that have shaped the sculpture's journey over the centuries. From its initial religious significance to its role in local folklore and historical narratives, the Barochan Cross has undergone a metamorphosis, reflecting the changing cultural and societal contexts in which it has been placed.

The book's rich narrative style brings the reader on a journey through time, immersing them in the historical, cultural, and artistic contexts that have influenced the Barochan Cross. Edensor's meticulous attention to detail and ability to convey the emotional resonance of the sculpture make for a compelling read, allowing the reader to fully appreciate the complexities and nuances of its history.

Moreover, the book's interdisciplinary approach brings together various fields of study, including art history, archaeology, cultural studies, and heritage management. By integrating these diverse perspectives, Edensor offers a comprehensive understanding of the Barochan Cross and its significance within the broader landscape of Scottish history and culture.

In conclusion, this book is a testament to the power of art and artifacts to illuminate the past and shape our understanding of the world. Through its exploration of the Barochan Cross, Tim Edensor has provided a valuable contribution to the field of heritage studies, offering a fresh perspective on the evolving relationships between human societies and their environments. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in art, history, culture, and the complexities of the human-landscape interaction.

Weight: 346g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811970290
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022