Art History 2710-002
(T)(R) 7:00pm-8:20pm
Jessica Haney
12/12/12
Art History: Final Exam1. Arch of Constantine- A triumphal arch that is significant in art history not only for its
beautiful reliefs but for its substantial use of spolia, or recycling of other works of art
and material.
Period/Style: Made around 312-315 CE, is a Roman artwork and has Hellenistic styles in its
recycled parts so it is a wonder in art history though it is probably one of the last great
Greek forms as well.
Ideas/Themes: In my opinion the main theme and idea of the Arch of Constantine is that
Emperor Constantine’s victory over Maxentius ties him into other great Roman Emperors,
who were good for Rome.
Artist’s Interpretation of Subject Matter: The architect(s) use of other victory monuments
seems to show that their interpretation of the subject matter was that the old could
combine with the new, that no matter the tyrants (Maxentius in this case) they will always
be defeated by the Roman Emperor (Constantine this time).
2. Chi-Rho Page-Significant in teaching the gospels in the Bible, Chi-Rho pages were also
carefully designed to take the reader on a pilgrimage of sorts.
Period/Style: Late 8th-early 9th century/Early Medieval art
Ideas/Themes: Christian themes and iconology are ever present in this intertwining work.
The Chi-Rho page incorporates gospel subjects.
Artist’s Interpretation of Subject Matter: Using iconology the artist takes you on a journey
based on the biblical story you are about to read. The flourishing lines skillfully and
intentionally lead your eyes around the page to absorb as much detailed and intriguing
pictures that teach Christian truths.
3. Gislebertus, Last Judgement-This relief sculpture is of religious significance to the Christian
world, in that it represents the Christianity belief in a final judgment that everyone will
partake in after death.
Period/Style: c. 1120-1145/Romanesque
Ideas/Themes: It shows that Christ is the ruler and judge of all and that there is life
eternal(if you are seated on Christ’s right) or an eternal fire(if you are seated on Christ’s left)
waiting for you based on your obedience to God’s laws.
Art History 2710-002
(T)(R) 7:00pm-8:20pm
Jessica Haney
12/12/12
Artist’s Interpretation of Subject Matter: The artist Gislebetrus(?), arranges a large figure
of Christ in the middle with his hands outstretched accepting all who come. Marry is
portrayed as a queen on his right along with St. Peter. Peter and the angels are accepting
people into heaven while devils and imps are dragging others (ie: a woman representing
carnal pleasure or lust) into hell. It is meant as a teaching tool and to scare sinners into
repentance.
4. Notre Dame de Chartres- The beautiful cathedral named “Our Lady” is a significant
representation of Gothic architecture. The building as a whole from the gothic façade
and stained glass windows to the labyrinth decorated floor is a teaching tool of Christian
beliefs.
Period/Style: 1163-1270/ Gothic style, however because it took so long to finish some
of the style changed with the times and with another architect. This is shown through
the two very different yet equally beautiful spires.
Ideas/Themes: Shows important Christian theology and depicts biblical stories and key
figures (ie: Apostles, Virgin Marry)
Artist’s Interpretation of Subject Matter: The architects and craftsmen of the Chartres
Cathedral have interrelated the Apostles and Saints into the stained glass windows and
stone exterior. They have also shown a representational pilgrimage and sign of
repentance in the labyrinth that decorates the open floor in the chapel, which is an
artwork all its own.
5. Pantheon- One of the best preserved Ancient Roman architecture in history, the
Pantheon was the home dedicated to all the gods the Romans worshiped. Its dome
arguably one of the best stone domes in all of architecture ascending over a beautiful
and functional square interiors. It is also still in use after 2000 years.
Period/Style: c.126/ Greek and Roman styles collide with Corinthian colonnades and a
Roman interior.
Ideas/Themes: The Pantheon originally housing Greek adopted Roman gods, giving
devotion to each of them. Later the theme of the Pantheon changed as Christianity
became the new religion in Rome. However its beauty still inspires a place of worship
for many.
Artist’s Interpretation of Subject Matter: The original Architects constructed the
Pantheon is such a meticulous way to pay homage to their gods. From the tall domes
Art History 2710-002
(T)(R) 7:00pm-8:20pm
Jessica Haney
12/12/12
opening to the marble floor that drains any rain water from the interior. The way they
incorporated the solar and lunar cycles into the building its self is a remarkable feat. Not
only did they honor all their gods, they used outside light from the outside to highlight
the statues in the niches at different times of the day. While the ancient Greek and
Roman gods have been replaced with Saints and Apostles, it is still an astounding sight .