Otto I lends his name to the “Ottonian” period. The Ottonian kings were determined to define themselves as Roman Emperors in the style of Constantine and Charlemagne.
c. 936 - 1015 C.E.
videos + essays
We're adding new content all the time!
Ottonian art, an introduction
Otto I was crowned Holy Roman Emperor in 962. He lent his name to two successors—and left a rich artistic legacy.
Bronze doors, Saint Michael’s, Hildesheim (Germany)
These monumental medieval doors look back to ancient models. Read the biblical narrative down and up, or left to right.
Gospel Book of Otto III
This manuscript is over a thousand years old. Among its magnificent paintings, Otto III sits on his throne.
Browse Smarthistory images for teaching & learning!