Styles & Periods

• Artists
• Styles & Periods
• Associations
• Glossary
• Projects
• Purchase Guides

Ottonian Art

Upon the death of the Carolingian dynasty the center of power was located in the hands of a Saxon king, whose power extended into Rome. King Otto I was the most powerful of all the Ottonian leaders, artistically and politically. The church of Saint Michael’s at Hildesheim, built in the first part of the 11th century, is one of the most important accomplishments of the Ottonian empire. This structure shows the delicate and refined aesthetics achieved by the structural changes of alternating internal light and heavy wall supports. The interior was divided, for the first time, into modules. The dramatic interior suggests the influence of the Near East. Saint Michael’s became the center of learning and politics, and, despite its distance from Rome, its leaders were aware of the artistic activities of the southern city. Bronze doors were added to the church, with sculptural figures cast into a single piece. Up until that time Carolingian sculpture had consisted of small pieces, so this innovation was remarkable, and anticipated the Romanesque use of large-scale sculpture.

Feeling inspired? Try out these fine products…

From $3.35 Watercolor Colored Pencils by Crayola Top brands for less	At Least 29% Off Professional Luminance Colored Pencils by Caran d'Ache Long lasting, brilliant color for artists needs!	Up to 45% Off NAVIDAD Solid Bamboo Studio Easel by Green Panda Effortless and accurate adjustment!
From $1.25 588 Series Sketch & Wash Pencil by General's use on any surface	From $9.19 Creation Oil Set by Talens Oil colors with versatile properties	Up to 56% Off 400 Series Drawing Paper Pad by Strathmore Durable, medium surface paper for final drawings