A global, interconnected world is not as recent as we think.
These works of art all demonstrate cross-cultural relationships.
All content | across cultures
The Medici collect the Americas
After Columbus landed on Hispaniola in 1492, items from the Americas were shipped to Europe where they were perceived as exotic items of wonder and fascination.
Across cultures, an introduction
Long before our global world, works of art often demonstrate rich interaction across cultures.
Altneushul, Prague
The Gothic forms used in churches are also employed here, but have been adapted to meet Jewish needs and traditions.
Mohammed ibn al-Zain, Basin (Baptistère de Saint Louis)
How did this object created by a Mamluk artisan come to be used for the baptism of French royal babies?
The David Vases
The blue cobalt glaze that seems so typical of Chinese porcelain actually comes from present-day Iran.
African art and the effects of European contact and colonization
Arts practices on the African continent have evolved both independently of and in response to European imperialism.
Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania
This island’s architecture attests to its long and tumultuous history of wealth, power, exchange, and conquest.
Hagia Sophia as a mosque
The Ottoman Turks turned this Byzantine church into a mosque, but a few adaptations to the space were necessary.
The manuscripts of Luis de Carvajal
The Carjavals converted to Christianity but practiced Judaism in secret, even after immigrating to Mexico.
Introduction to the Spanish Viceroyalties in the Americas
Both Europe and the Americas were forever changed by Columbus’ accidental landing in the Caribbean in 1492.
Atrial Cross at Acolman
The convento atrium was a place for preaching. This cross taught new converts about Christianity.
Benin plaque: Equestrian Oba and Attendants
Benin’s plaques were possible due to mutually beneficial trade with the Portuguese who brought brass to Africa.