Artists of the Middle Ages

Abstract

In the first volume of theArtists of an Eraseries, Leslie Ross examines the identities of artists attributed to the most famous and influential works of medieval art. These works are much discussed within the realm of art history, yet the identities of medieval artists fall victim to incomplete historical records and often remain enigmatic. In ten narrative chapters, Ross examines this significant area of the art world (including architecture, iconography, metalwork, scribework, sculpture—even medieval art instruction) and summarizes the lives and work of that genre's leading artist or artists. Students will learn not only what is factually known of an artist's life (as well as what is purely speculative), but also the processes used to gather the information and fuel speculation. Readers will also gain unique insights into the practices and traditions of medieval art and the role it played within medieval society. A timeline, chapter bibliographies, a list of further resources on medieval art, and an index offer additional tools to students of medieval art and art history.