Word and Image: An Introduction to Early Medieval Art

by William J. Diebold

This book provides an introduction to early medieval art, both the images themselves and the methods used to study them, focusing on the relationship of word and image, a relationship that was central in northern Europe and the Mediterranean from about 600 to about 1050.

Genres: Art History

174 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Kristen Heritage]

A very clearly written and accessible survey of early medieval art. Framing its analysis through the function of text and images in medieval Christianity and broader culture, it contextualizes the historical events and philosophical perspectives that give early medieval art its unique character.

[Kafkasfriend]

An attempt to show how the image (as understood now) can be interpreted and imposed upon the past. interesting discussion material.

[Kevin Fitzpatrick]

Intriguing to newcomers and reassuring to more experienced hands, Word and Image provides a cogent and profound look at the Christian Art of the Early Medieval Period. Using as a organizing conceit the dialectical relationship between 'word' and 'image' as first outlined by Pope Gregory in the seventh century, Diebold builds his case through successive examples of Early Medieval art where words and images do their 'dance,' creating meaning through the interaction of these primary artistic elements. One soon realizes that the author's purpose is not just to analyze an obscure period's artistic raison d'etre, but rather to explore the interplay tween meaning and visual support in art through out all the ages. I enjoyed the book immensely (especially the photos), and would recommend it to any art lover.