The Gothic style spread across Europe, where artists produced sculpture, painting, and architecture for both Christian and Jewish patrons.
c. 1235–1500 C.E.
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Death of the Virgin, South portal, Strasbourg Cathedral
The scene of the Death of the Virgin exhibits a new naturalism and inspiration from ancient Roman sculpture.
Synagoga and Ecclesia, Strasbourg Cathedral
A close look at Synagoga and Ecclesia at Strasbourg Cathedral helps to illuminate the shifting meanings of Gothic sculpture.
Hiding the divine in a medieval Madonna: Shrine of the Virgin
The Virgin Mary is the portal to the divine in this Gothic shrine
The Crucifixion, c. 1200 (from Christus triumphans to Christus patiens)
A comparison of two Italian medieval crosses shows the transformation of Christ from transcendent to human.
Cimabue, Virgin and Child Enthroned, and Prophets (Santa Trinita Maestà)
Set against gleaming gold, Mary and Christ sit on an intricately carved throne studded with gems.
Venice’s San Marco, a mosaic of spiritual treasure
Nearly everything in medieval and Renaissance Venice was stolen or imported—and the Venetians advertised that on the facade of the Cathedral.
Altneushul, Prague
In the “Old New Synagogue,” desks surround a Torah plaform. Text outweighs image—only plants ornament the space.
Bonaventura Berlinghieri, Saint Francis Altarpiece
At the center of this life-size painting stands humble St. Francis. Scenes from his life fill this gilded panel.
Röttgen Pietà
Taut skin, exposed ribs, a bleeding wound—this Christ suffered in both life and death. Medieval viewers took solace in his pain.
