Religious Imagery
Define the term monogram. Why are they used by artists?
A monogram is a character consisting of two or more letters combined or interwoven. They are used by artists to distinguish their work from others and to provide a unique quality to their art.
This is a photograph of the Sandal reliquary of Saint Andrew. Explain what a reliquary is as well as its importance to the Catholic Church?
A reliquary is a type of container used to hold a relic of a saint or martyr. The relics were thought to be endowed with healing powers, a widespread belief and held a strong message with all people with Christian backgrounds. The relics were housed in the reliquaries, they contained the relics of saints. It was believed by medieval Christians to be an intermediary for the healing of the sick worshiper.
Describe how the above statue of Hindu deities, Perumal Temple Statue, in Singapore, helps connect its followers to the Hindu faith and their gods.
Answer will vary but may resemble the following: The calmness on the faces of the images helps encourage calmness among its people; Their palms are showing, which promotes a welcoming sense; the number of figures encourage strength and power; and the similarities among the deities shows unity and oneness of the Hindu people and the gods.
What is anthropomorphic imagery? In your opinion, what are two possible purposes for this type of art?
Anthropomorphic imagery is taking animals or objects and giving them human shapes and/or qualities. Opinions will vary.
What is the above image a photograph of? Why was it created?
It is a photograph of a Neolithic plastered skull. It was created to preserve the past for future generations to experience.
Name the above portrait and the artist who painted it. What was its original purpose?
It is a portrait of Saint James by Albrecht Durer. Its purpose was to convey the powerful presence of the apostle, the message he spread, and to remind people of the beginnings of Christianity.
Define the following terms: - patron - illuminated manuscript - relic
Patron: A person or group that commissions a work of art. Illuminated manuscript: A handwritten book with painted illustrations produced in the Middle Ages. Relic: An object highly-respected and carefully preserved because of its association with a martyr or saint.
Explain how religions use works of art to encourage and spread their beliefs.
Religions such as Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism use works of art in the interiors and exteriors of the places of worship as a way of connecting gods with people. They often tell stories of the origin of faith, commandments, or display important figures. It is a form of propaganda, however also a way of helping religious followers to remain connected and faith-filled.
What is the above image an example of? Describe its purpose and importance in history.
The image is an example of an illuminated manuscript. The concept was to combine religious text (Christian and Islamic) and artistic detail, in order to emphasize the importance of the text. At one time, illuminated manuscripts were the only legalized, accepted form of art.
Name and describe what is depicted in the above work of art. Would this piece of art be considered a relic?
This piece is, Sophia the Martyr with three daughters: Faith, Hope and Love. They were martyrs for the Eastern Orthodox Church, and therefore serves today as a Russian relic.
