20.3.20

Capitals


I visited the Saint-Germain-des-Prés church again (see previous posts here and here). The restoration works are almost finished. 

For some reason, this time I was especially struck by the capitals of the pillars. The carved capitals are all different and many of them have very medieval types of decorations. I understand that most of these are not the original ones, but were later copied. Some of the original ones can be found at the Cluny Museum (see posts here and here). Now, almost all of the ones in the church have again been restored and have very bright colours.





I think it’s interesting to see how these sometimes grotesque and not always very respectful illustrations were allowed, even encouraged, during the medieval times - see also some of the above ones. One can compare also with what I showed from the walls of the northern transept of the Saint Denis Basilica (see here).



Finally, some sun and light reflecting on the walls and pillars.  


7 comments:

Hels said...

I like "not always respectful". It shows that the artists were not asleep on the job, coping what had always been done. They were being more creative than that.

Ruby said...

These are beautiful and well preserved. 😀 I love the light and reflections of the stained glass.

Bob Alescio said...

One of my favorite churches to visit. How lovely the light through stained glass falls.

Jeanie said...

I can see why you were attracted to the capitals. They are stunning.

It's good to see you here, Peter. I worry about all my friends far away with the Covid-19 virus and I hope you are well and stay inside or if outside walking, alone. You are precious cargo and I don't want to hear of bad viruses hitting you! Stay well. ~~ jeanie (and rick, too.)

claude said...

C'est tout bonnement magnifique !

Jean said...

Wonderful to see these as they were originally--painted such bright colors. Glad you are back.

Anonymous said...

Stunning photography! Thank you so much.