Religious art has long been at the very center of the art world. After the fall of Rome artists poured their energies into the emerging strength of Christianity which swept through Europe to become the dominant force in society, culture and philosophy.
From this came some of the most sublime art ever produced. The Italian Renaissance alone produced arguably some of the most distinct and well-known art in history. It is no surprise that with the advent of modern printing techniques that religious art, for so long the preserve of the wealthy, has made its way into our homes.
Religion as Art
During the Medieval era, with its preoccupation of death and eternal life, we see the emergence of distinct works of art glorifying God. Followed by the Renaissance religious art soon took on a life of its own. Christian Europe poured almost all it artistic energy into the production of art that glorified the power of God, and helped create some of the greatest of all masterpieces.
Because of the vivid imagery and the almost exclusively religious nature of art at this time much of it has survived into the modern era. In addition because it is so distinctive many art lovers are drawn to religious art as an option for their home dcor needs. From early Medieval religious art influenced by Byzantine craftsmen, to more modern-looking Renaissance and post-Renaissance art, many have come to appreciate the impact religious art can have in even the most modern of homes.
Religious Prints and Posters
A great many famous works of religious art have been reproduced as prints and posters. Some of the best examples from history are now available, and are a real treasure trove of information as well as a unique piece of wall art.
One of the most popular is Michelangelos Creation of Adam from the ceiling of the Sistine chapel. As one of the most sublime works of any age it is instantly recognizable and as impressive now as ever.
Michelangelos legendary attention to detail and supreme ability with color is encompassed in this one small detail from what possibly ranks as the most famous piece of art ever created. Even 500 years after it was completed it is a staggering testament to the inspiration religious devotion created for artists through the ages.
Giving its distinct imagery it works well as framed artwork. Even posters versions, properly framed, can look dramatic and expressive, adding an unusual touch to any decorating scheme. With its beautifully rendered lines and subtle use of color it can enliven almost any environment, and is a striking way for history lovers to at a touch of class to any environment.
Religious Wall Tapestries
Although prints enjoy a unique position in home dcor popular religious art is increasingly available as luxury wall tapestries. The woven nature of tapestry art adds depth and texture to these already impressive works and a religious tapestry makes a distinct alternative to framed art.
An impressive range of religious tapestries are now available. A particularly striking example is El Grecos famous Trinity.
A reproduction of the original mannerist painting it was originally painted in 1577 for the altarpiece of Santo Domingo el Antiguo church in Toledo, Spain. It achieved great fame in its day, and clearly shows the artists' influences, in particular the impact of Italian Renaissance art on his work.
Reminiscent of Michelangelo's Pieta it depicts Christ after the crucifixion, supported by the Holy Father and attended to by the Holy Spirit and numerous angels. Its vivid colors and impressive palette demonstrate the artists' evident skill in composition, and the intensity of his vision. The original can be found in the Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain.
A native of Crete, El Greco (1541 - 1614), as he was known throughout Spain and Italy, actually signed all his work with his native Greek name, Dominikos Theotokpulos. Although very little is known about his early life he is believed to have trained in the Byzantine tradition of icon painting before moving to Italy. He later moved to Toledo in Spain, where he spent the rest of his life, finding the success that eluded him during his stay in Rome.
The Trinity wall tapestry, being based on such a famously vibrant and striking work of religious art, transfers well to woven fabric. The dynamism seen in the original blends well with the weave, especially so with very high quality reproductions. Added to the unique qualities that are a feature of luxury wall tapestries the end result is a magnificent testament to El Greco's original art, as well as a truly striking piece of wall decor.
As with all quality wall tapestries its subtlety and vitality transfer well to textiles, adding an almost antique quality to and already distinctive work of art.
Dramatic Dcor
Because wall tapestries are textile based the weave often helps lift the original work making for a quite dramatic piece of dcor. The best quality tapestries do an impressive job of not only reproducing the original detail, but add considerably to their charm and people can be quite taken aback at their distinctive nature.
Nowadays many people are looking to religious art to add some charm and history to their home decor. With a vast array of options to choose from, including posters, prints and wall tapestries, there's never been a better time to appreciate these unique works of art.
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