Mosaic
During the time of Charlemagne, a large emphasis was directed towards learning. Even though Charlemagne could not read, he was highly supportive of the development of illustrated texts. This time became known as the “Carolingian Art Period” which lasted from 732 to 900 A.D. During the Romanesque time period from 800 to 1100 A.D., paintings were still being done as illustrated scriptures, and extended vaguely to mural painting in churches and “synagogues”, which were then defined just as places of meetings and gatherings. Hardly any of the murals still exist, and most of them are left only in fragments. A finished piece’s value is estimated to be around 200 million dollars
During this era, influences from Byzantine artcan be clearly seen, as the evolution of mosaic art is emerging.
Most times mosaics were used in place of a mural, because of the lesser cost, and the scarcity of long lasting painting materials. Mosaics were a good alternative to murals because they were easier to create, and they lasted longer. Sometimes it was hard to find an artist to do mosaic piece, because it was a fairly new form of art, and not many artists were familiarized with the techniques needed to impress the high classes and church officials.
Gothic Arcitecture and Sculptures
“Gothic architecture characterizes any of the styles of European architecture, particularly associated with cathedrals and other churches, in use throughout Europe during the high and late medieval period, from the 12th century onwards. It was succeeded by Renaissance architecture, a revival of Roman formulas, at varying times in Europe, beginning in Florence in the 15th century.”
Modernism rooting in Carolingian buildings gave new hope to the architecture of the Romanesque period, when many great works were being constructed, and to the great cathedrals of the Gothic style, which owed it’s inception to France. Many delicate and unique medieval monuments are still in existence, including St. Sernin, Toulouse (1080–1120) and Chartres Cathedral (which was began 1194).