The Art and Science of the Church Screen in Medieval Europe - (Boydell Studies in Medieval Art and Architecture) (Paperback)

About the Book

Fresh examinations of one of the most important church furnishings of the middle ages.

Book Synopsis

Fresh examinations of one of the most important church furnishings of the middle ages.

The churches of medieval Europe contained richly carved and painted screens, placed between the altar and the congregation; they survive in particularly high numbers in England, despite being partly dismantled during the Reformation. While these screens divided "lay" from "priestly" jurisdiction, it has also been argued that they served to unify architectural space. This volume brings together the latest scholarship on the subject, exploring in detail numerous aspects of the construction and painting of screens, it aims in particular to unite perspectives from science and art history. Examples are drawn from a wide geographical range, from Scandinavia to Italy.

Review Quotes

[A]n invaluable resource providing a comprehensive survey of these indispensable components of the medieval church interior.-- "SPECULUM"

An effervescent collection of essays by international leaders in their disciplines, weaving together remarkably detailed case studies of individual screens with thematically rich research that considers major issues, including the senses and patronage.-- "LIVING CHURCH"

Copiously illustrated and beautifully produced.-- "THE ART NEWSPAPER"

Just about everything you might want to know about church screens is to be found here . . . the reader comes away with a much better understanding of the role of reIigion as practiced in Medieval life and respect for the artisans, constructors, and patrons who brought these screens into being.-- "ANGLICAN AND EPISCOPAL HISTORY"

Not only provides a cogent and convenient summary of the state of research but also points the way forward for further work on the subject.-- "ENGLISH HISTORICAL REVIEW"