Huma103 - Lecture 12

HUMANITIES 103
Introduction to Medieval Civilization
Fall Semester 1997

Wednesday, October 9
Lecture 12: Charlemagne's Renovatio imperii romani

I. CHARLEMAGNE (768-814). Coronation of Charlemagne in Rome underscored two themes that underlie much of Carolingian art.

sacred kingship
- Mosaics in Hall (Triclinium) of Leo III of Lateran Palace in Rome illustrating delegation of authority from Christ to Peter and Constantine and from Peter to Charlemagne and Leo III
historical genealogies associating Constantine with Charlemagne adding legitimacy to claims of authority
- wall paintings in palace at Ingelheim described by Ermoldus Nigellus

II. THE IDEA OF RENAISSANCE IN ART AND ARCHITECTURE. Revival (renovatio imperii romanii) takes a variety of forms--copies, models, spoils (spolia)

Equestrian statue of Charlemagne?
cf. equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, Rome, 165 AD
Einhard's Altar base, in form of triumphal arch, 18th century drawing after lost reliquary base
cf. Arch of Titus, Rome, 81 AD
Fountain of Life, Gospel Book of Saint Médard of Soissons, early ninth century
cf. Lateran Baptistry, Rome
Vienna Schatzkammer Gospels (Palace School), 790-810, St. Matthew author portrait
cf. Vienna Dioscuridies mss. c. 512

III. PALATINE COMPLEX AT AACHEN. THE SECOND ROME. Primary residence of Charlemagne in Rhine Valley, begun 786, attributed to architect Odo of Metz

Aula regia (royal audience hall),
cf. Charlemagne's palace at Ingelheim cf. Constantine's Basilica at Trier, 310.
Cappella palatina, (palatine chapel); cf. San Vitali in Ravenna, ded. 547; Decoration--dome mosaic of Christ and 24 Elders (maiestas domini); bronze doors; bronze railings; bronze pine cone fountain; bronze equestrian statue. Numerous references to Old Saint Peters, Rome and Ravenna.

HUMANITIES 103 Introduction to Medieval Civilization Fall Semester 1997

HUMANITIES 103
Introduction to Medieval Civilization
Fall Semester 1997