2020年12月29日 · Tympana sculpted in relief ornament the interior east and west entrances and various niches in the nave and chancel areas. Interested in exploring the breathtaking reliefs throughout the Basilica, but not sure where to start? We’ve selected some of the most distinctive relief sculptures of the Basilica and compiled them below.

2021年4月7日 · A signature element of the Basilica’s unique Byzantine-Romanesque style is the incorporation of exterior reliefs. The archways, chancels, and more are ornamented with heroic-size figures of saints and finely sculpted tympana. In today’s Guide to Art post, we invite you to explore these intricate relief carvings and what they represent.

There are three basic types of relief sculpture: (1) low relief (basso-relievo, or bas-relief), where the sculpture projects only slightly from the background surface; (2) high relief (alto-relievo, or alto-relief), where the sculpture projects at least half or more of its natural circumference from the background, and may in parts be wholly ...

Relief sculptures can range in size from small, intricate carvings to massive, monumental works, and can be made from a variety of materials, including stone, wood, bronze, and plaster. Throughout history, relief sculptures have been used to depict religious and mythological stories, historical events, and portraits of individuals or groups.

Relief sculptures were prominent in the sarcophagi of Roman art during the 2nd and 3rd centuries ce. During the European Middle Ages the emphasis in sculpture was definitely on relief work. Some of the most outstanding examples decorate the Romanesque portals (tympana) of churches in France, England, and other countries.

The Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus (above and below) is very famous in art circles and has been described as “probably the single most famous piece of early Christian relief sculpture.” Junius Bassus died in 359.

The south door of Kilpeck St Mary & David Church depicts a wonderful set of relief sculptures depicting beasts and characters from English folklore. A romanesque curved arch is supported by double pillars. The outside depicts skies running up their length swallowing their tales.

2024年1月12日 · What is a high-relief sculpture, and how did this type of sculpture emerge in history? Relief sculptures are best understood as representations or abstract sculptures that are shared as an art form across multiple cultures.

2023年3月1日 · High upon the walls of the East Tympana in the Great Upper Church, three breathtaking relief sculptures are inlaid above the sanctuary doors. Each sculpture honors different attributes of Mary: Mary, Ever Virgin; Mary, Queen of Nations and Patroness of Pilgrims; and Mary, Mother of God.

2023年11月21日 · In Romanesque churches, relief sculptures are typically found on the facade (front) of the church, particularly around the portals and in the space above the entrance known as the tympanum. This area served a didactic purpose, reinforcing the teachings of the church through visual imagery for both literate and illiterate individuals.