Month: October 2023

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The Bayeux Tapestry is an iconic piece of medieval art and historical record.

It is not actually a tapestry in the traditional sense, but rather an embroidered cloth that tells the story of the Norman Conquest of England. Here are some key points about the Bayeux Tapestry:

  1. Origin: The Bayeux Tapestry is believed to have been created in the 11th century, shortly after the Norman Conquest. The exact date of creation is a subject of debate, but it is generally attributed to the 1070s.
  2. Length and Material: The tapestry is approximately 70 meters (230 feet) long and 50 centimeters (20 inches) wide. It is made of linen and embroidered with colored woolen threads.
  1. Narrative: The main purpose of the Bayeux Tapestry is to depict the events leading up to and including the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, particularly the Battle of Hastings. It tells the story in a continuous narrative, with Latin inscriptions providing explanations and captions.
  2. Artistic Style: The tapestry is known for its detailed and lively scenes. The embroidery style is somewhat reminiscent of the Bayeux School of Embroidery, with characters and events depicted in a stylized but engaging manner.
  3. Current Location: The original Bayeux Tapestry is housed in the Bayeux Museum in Bayeux, Normandy, France. It is displayed in a specially designed exhibit that allows visitors to view the entire tapestry.
  4. Historical Significance: The Bayeux Tapestry is considered a significant historical source for the events of the Norman Conquest, and it provides valuable insights into the clothing, armor, and tactics of the time.
  5. Ownership Disputes: Over the years, there have been discussions about whether the Bayeux Tapestry should be returned to England, where it was originally created, but it remains in France as of my last knowledge update in January 2022.

The Bayeux Tapestry continues to be a popular subject of study and a fascinating glimpse into medieval history and art. It remains a symbol of the Norman Conquest and its lasting impact on English history.

In the late 19th century, an extremely ambitious project was undertaken by a group of Victorian embroiderers to recreate the Bayeux Tapestry in full, painstakingly reproducing every single detail, stitch-by-stitch, so that the Tapestry’s timeless story could be enjoyed by the people of Britain.

Today, this artwork, Britain’s Bayeux Tapestry, is held at Reading Museum

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Four artworks featuring the Archangel St Michael

ArtistRaphael
Yearc. 1504–1505
MediumOil on wood
Dimensions30 cm × 26 cm (12 in × 10 in)
LocationLouvre, Paris

“Saint Michael and the Dragon” by Raphael: This famous painting is part of Raphael’s work in the Vatican and depicts St. Michael vanquishing the dragon.

Guido Reni. 1575-1642. Italian artist. The Archangel Michael Defeating Satan. c. 1635. 293 x 202 cms | 115 1/4 x 79 1/2 ins. Oil on Canvas.

The Archangel Michael” by Guido Reni: This Baroque masterpiece showcases St. Michael in a dynamic pose as he defeats Satan.

ca. 1622, Oil on canvas., 149 x 126 cm, Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid

“Saint Michael and the Devil” by Pieter Paul Rubens (Workshop of): Rubens’ dramatic painting captures the intense battle between St. Michael and the devil.

St Michael’s Victory over the Devil (1958), at Coventry Cathedral

St. Michael’s Triumph Over the Devil” by Jacob Epstein: This sculpture, located in Coventry Cathedral, depicts St. Michael as a modern, muscular figure defeating evil

These artworks offer various interpretations of the archangel’s triumph over evil and are celebrated for their artistic significance. Everyone though, will not agree with this selection.

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The roundal in British mod culture

The RAF roundel, with its distinctive red, white, and blue concentric circles, played a significant role in mod culture during the 1960s in the United Kingdom. Mods were a youth subculture characterized by their love of modernism, fashion, and music. They embraced a sharp, clean-cut look and often had a fascination with Italian scooters.

Moony’s Tshirt
On July 1st, 1965, The Who are filmed performing live versions of “Anyway Anyhow Anywhere” and “Shout and Shimmy” for Ready Steady GO!

The RAF roundel was frequently adopted as a fashion symbol by mods. It appeared on clothing, including parkas, and was often used as a design element on scooters. This adoption of the RAF roundel by mods was a way to signify a sense of patriotism and British identity, while also reflecting the mod ethos of being stylish and fashionable. The roundel became an iconic symbol of the mod movement, representing a connection to both British heritage and modernity.

In addition to the RAF roundel, other symbols and fashion items like the Union Jack flag and specific brands like Fred Perry and Ben Sherman were also closely associated with mod culture. Mods’ fashion choices and their use of symbols like the RAF roundel became an essential part of their identity and played a role in defining the subculture during the 1960s.

Probably appropriated from the US artist, Jasper Johns’ imagery of the early 1960s. John served in the military and appropriated symbols such the roundal and the US flag.

Jasper Johns Target, 1961

From Royal Academy website:

Along with flags, targets are another of Johns’ striking motifs from his early career. Associated with repetition – reciting the national anthem, practicing firing skills – these commonplace items were ingrained in mid-century American life. Johns used them as part of his wider exploration of “things that are seen and looked at, not examined”. He was one of the first artists to depict everyday objects and symbols in the mid-1950s, pursuing “things which suggest the world rather than suggest the personality”, as he said in 1965.

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Montecatini Alto in Tuscany

Deserted Villa at Montecatini Alto, Tuscany Italy (c) The author.

Vista by Cable Car, (c) The Author

Montecatini Alto is a charming medieval village located in the province of Pistoia, in the Tuscany region of Italy. It is situated on a hill overlooking the more modern spa town of Montecatini Terme.

Here are some key points about Montecatini Alto:

  1. Historical Significance: Montecatini Alto has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The village’s historic center retains much of its medieval character, with narrow cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and a picturesque central square.
  2. Panoramic Views: One of the main attractions of Montecatini Alto is its stunning panoramic views. From the hilltop, visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Tuscan countryside, making it a popular spot for tourists and photographers.
  3. Cable Car: To reach Montecatini Alto, you can take a charming cable car ride from Montecatini Terme. The cable car journey offers scenic views as it ascends the hill, providing a convenient and enjoyable way to access the historic village.
  4. Attractions: Once in Montecatini Alto, you can explore several attractions, including the historic town square, Piazza Giusti, which is surrounded by cafes and restaurants. There are also historic churches like the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, as well as a fortress known as Rocca di Castello.
  5. Local Cuisine: The village offers opportunities to savor traditional Tuscan cuisine at its local trattorias and restaurants. You can enjoy classic dishes such as pasta, risotto, and grilled meats, often accompanied by excellent local wines.
  6. Cultural Events: Montecatini Alto hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and historical reenactments. These events showcase the village’s rich cultural heritage.
  7. Relaxing Atmosphere: Compared to the busier Montecatini Terme, Montecatini Alto offers a more relaxed and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a great place to wander the streets, enjoy a leisurely meal, and soak up the ambiance of a medieval Italian village.
  8. Day Trip Destination: Many visitors to Tuscany choose to make a day trip to Montecatini Alto from nearby cities like Florence, Pisa, or Lucca due to its historical charm and proximity to these popular tourist destinations.

Overall, Montecatini Alto is a delightful destination for those interested in history, culture, and the scenic beauty of Tuscany. It provides a glimpse into Italy’s medieval past and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling modern world.

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The work of Alberto Giacometti (1901-1966)

Alberto Giacometti
Man Pointing 1947
Tate
© The Estate of Alberto Giacometti (Fondation Giacometti, Paris and ADAGP, Paris), licensed in the UK by ACS and DACS, London 2017

Alberto Giacometti was a sculptor and painter known for his distinctive influential contributions to modern art. His work is characterized by its exploration of the human condition, existential themes, and a unique approach to sculpting the human figure. Here are some key aspects of Giacometti’s work:

  1. Thin and Emaciated Figures: Giacometti is perhaps most famous for his sculptures of elongated and emaciated human figures. These thin and fragile figures seem to convey a sense of human isolation and existential despair. His sculptures often give the impression of figures trapped in their own thoughts and struggles.
  2. Existential Themes: Giacometti’s work is deeply influenced by existentialist philosophy, particularly the ideas of Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus. His sculptures are seen as representations of the human condition, reflecting themes of alienation, isolation, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world.
Jean Genet 1954 or 1955 Alberto Giacometti 1901-1966 Accepted by HM Government in lieu of tax and allocated to the Tate Gallery 1987 http://www.tate.org.uk/art/work/T04905
  1. Process and Technique: Giacometti’s sculpting technique was meticulous and time-consuming. He would often work on a single piece for an extended period, continuously refining and reworking it. This process reflects his obsession with capturing the essence of the human form and the difficulty of truly representing reality.
  2. Surrealist Influence: Earlier in his career, Giacometti was associated with the Surrealist movement. His work during this period included dreamlike and fantastical elements, as seen in pieces like “The Palace at 4 a.m.” However, he eventually moved away from Surrealism towards a more existential and figurative style.
  3. Painting: In addition to sculpture, Giacometti was a skilled painter. His paintings often featured the same thin, elongated figures as his sculptures. He used a similar approach to depict the isolation and vulnerability of the human form in his paintings.
  4. Influence on Art: Giacometti’s work had a profound impact on modern sculpture and influenced subsequent generations of artists. His minimalist and expressive style challenged traditional notions of sculpture and pushed the boundaries of how the human figure could be represented in art.
  5. Legacy: Giacometti’s legacy continues to be celebrated in the art world. His sculptures and paintings are highly sought after by collectors, and his influence can be seen in contemporary art as well.

Alberto Giacometti Surrealist Composition c. 1933 © The Estate of Alberto Giacometti (Fondation Giacometti, Paris and ADAGP, Paris), licensed in the UK by ACS and DACS, London 2017

Overall, Alberto Giacometti’s work is a testament to his exploration of the human condition and his ability to convey complex existential themes through the use of form and texture in both sculpture and painting. His contributions to modern art have left an enduring mark on the art world.

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The influence of existential philosophy on the arts

Existentialist philosophy, including the writings of Jean-Paul Sartre, had a significant influence on various forms of art and literature in the 20th century. Here are some ways in which existentialism intersected with the world of art:

  1. Themes of Existential Angst: Existentialism often explores the angst or anxiety that arises from the realization of one’s freedom and responsibility. This sense of existential dread and uncertainty found its way into literature and art. Artists and writers depicted characters and scenes that captured the inner turmoil and alienation of individuals, reflecting existential themes.
  2. Absurdity and Nihilism: Existentialist thinkers like Albert Camus explored the concept of the absurd, where life is perceived as devoid of inherent meaning. This notion resonated with artists who embraced a nihilistic perspective, leading to works that challenged traditional notions of purpose and order.
  3. Individualism: Existentialism places a strong emphasis on individuality and personal choice. This concept inspired artists to break away from conventional norms and create works that were highly personal and expressive, leading to various artistic movements like Abstract Expressionism and Surrealism.
  4. Existential Literature: Existentialist literature, particularly Sartre’s works like “Nausea” and “Being and Nothingness,” encouraged authors to explore complex characters facing moral dilemmas and existential crises. This influence can be seen in the writings of authors like Albert Camus, Samuel Beckett, and Jean Genet.
  5. Theatre of the Absurd: Sartre’s influence is evident in the Theatre of the Absurd, a dramatic movement that emerged in the mid-20th century. Playwrights like Samuel Beckett and Eugène Ionesco created works that depicted characters trapped in absurd and meaningless situations, echoing existential themes.
  6. Visual Arts: In the visual arts, artists like Alberto Giacometti and Francis Bacon explored the human condition through distorted and haunting depictions of the human form. These works often conveyed a sense of existential isolation and despair.
  7. Film: Existentialism also found its way into cinema, with filmmakers like Ingmar Bergman and Michelangelo Antonioni exploring themes of alienation, existential crisis, and the search for meaning in their films.

While existentialism had a profound impact on the arts, it’s important to note that not all modern art and literature from this period were directly influenced by existential philosophy. Nevertheless, existentialism’s exploration of the human experience, freedom, and the absurdity of existence provided a rich source of inspiration for many artists and writers during the 20th century.