The Art of Europe: The Dark Ages from Theodoric to Charlemagne

By Paolo Verzone 1968 (Translated by Pamela Waley)

I recommend this book if you are interested in learning more about the art and architecture of Western Europe during the Byzantine period (425-800 A.D.).

The book is visually stimulating with its fifty-three color plates and ninety-one figures.  With its helpful Glossary, a detailed Index and a brief Chronological Table it becomes a very easy to use reference book.  A unique aspect of this book is that the color pictures were pasted in after the book was printed.

The many descriptions of ancient churches, crypts and other buildings really kept me intrigued.  The many examples of frescoes, plates, stele, mosaics and sculptures brought the period to life.  The metalwork, paintings and jewelry enlightened me to the passion the craftsmen put into their work.  The bibliophile in me was excited by the covers and pages of the colorful illuminated manuscripts that were covered in zoomorphic forms and intricate geometric designs.

The author gives quite a bit of history throughout the book.  This really helped me to understand and put in perspective the various forms of art and why certain styles were employed.  This  history trail not only told me of the events that happened, but why and how these events shaped and changed the way the architecture was designed and why we still have traces in some spots and in others we have little or no obvious signs to show for it.

After reading this book, I really feel that I have a much greater appreciation of the art and terminology of this era.  I must admit, I now have a strong desire to visit my local art museum and look upon the collections that are available from this period with my new perspective.

The following is a sample of some of the terms from the glossary:

•  Ambulatory:  the aisles surrounding the central area of a church, which may include a passage behind the altar.
• Basilica:  hall for assembly, usually rectangular, with two rows of columns, originally for secular purposes, later adapted for Christian churches.
• Cloisonné:  decorative inlay in cells made by soldering strips of metal or wire to a base, which are then filled with enamel, glass paste or garnets.
• Narthex:  vestibule or porch across the entrance to a basilica, either inside or outside the façade.
• Rinceau:  decorative scroll-like pattern predominantly of stems and foliage.