Carolingian Art (late 8th-9th century)

The designation for this period comes from the Latin form of Charlemagne's name, Carolus Magnus, or Charles the Great. This period is sometimes called the "Carolingian Renaissance" because Charlemagne was well-traveled, had respect for classical and Christian learning, and established schools in monasteries and palaces. He also brought the leading scholar of his day, Alcuin, from Great Britain to his capital city at Aachen, along with other scholars. While much of the art of the early medieval period deviates from the standards set by classical art, some reminders of classical art occured during Charlemagne's reign.

	Charlemagne's Palace Chapel Aachen, late 8th century
	When Charlemagne visited Italy, he was impressed with San Vitale in Ravenna. He had his architects copy the plan and the interior. Although this palace chapel (one for his personal use) is heavier than San Vitale, it shows influence from earlier structures. Especially striking is the bronze-cast balustrade. The casting of metal was a classical technique that had almost been forgotten, especially on this scale. Not only was this new in the medieval period, but the balustrade has classical details -- the acanthus leaves used on Corinthian capitals and the fluting common to classical columns.
	St. John, Coronation Gospels Gospel Book of Charlemagne, 800-810
	This page is from a manuscript illuminated in a monastery that Charlemagne sponsored. It clearly indicates the influence of classical art. The figure is three-dimensional -- shadows (or modeling) on the cheek, lips, hands and feet give these forms roundness. The drapery folds and projecting knees also indicate the volume of the figure. The saint really sits on his throne (note the position of his feet). There is also some sense of space through the projected throne and a semi-realistic background. One reason this period in art can legitimately be termed a "renaissance" is that traits such as these would not consistently concur again until the Italian Renaissance of the 14th-16th centuries. Most medieval art developed in directions very different from classical and later Renaissance art.