Annunciation to Last Judgement: Themes and Variations in Christian Art – Introduction and The Annunciation (Day 1)

During the summer of 2020 we are offering a series of linked but separate study days on  Images from Christian Art. Each day can be booked individually.

This year’s Summer Series will examine the main themes and many ways in which they were interpreted by artists and sculptors from the fourth to the nineteenth centuries. We will consider the ways in which artists and their patrons interpret the texts, not only of the Bible, but also the Revelations of St. Bridget and the fascinating commentaries in The Golden Legend.

Programme for Day 1

 Introduction and The Annunciation from the fourth to the nineteenth centuries

The Annunciation was one of the most popular themes chosen by public and private patrons. We will explore the fascinating ways in which artists, such as Duccio, Lorenzetti, Lorenzo Lotto, Titian or the Pre-Raphaelites dealt with the theme and study the texts which the artists and their patrons interpreted. We will consider, for example, why the Virgin’s response may vary in her reception of the Angel Gabriel’s message. Does she stand or sit?  Is she afraid or calm?  Does the event take place outside or inside?

Lectures

1. Introduction to the Series
2. The Annunciation in the Early Christian and Medieval Periods
3. Renaissance Variations in the Annunciation
4. The Baroque and Beyond: The Annunciation from the sixteenth to the nineteenth centuries

Future days (booking for Days 3-5 will open at the beginning of May):

• The Nativity and Adorations             Thursday 11^th June 2020
• The Life and Ministry of Christ          Tuesday 30^th June 2020
• The Last Supper                                      Wednesday 22^nd July 2020
• The Crucifixion                                        Wednesday 12^th August 2020
• The Last Judgement                             Thursday 10th September 2020