The research on late Byzantine goldsmiths’ works is basically at the beginning. This first conference on the subject brings together acknowledged experts on the medieval art of the goldsmith. The period of the 13th to 15th century is especially rewarding for studying and discussing questions of cultural transfer and contacts between Byzantium and its neighbours. Following the events of 1204 the influence of the Crusaders, as well as other contacts and political changes become noticeable in Byzantine art. To mention but a few, the rise of the Seljuk Empire or the Christianization of the Balkans and Russia led to an extensive exchange and mutual influence in art, as well as trade contacts. Especially the 13th century, during which the Byzantine capital Constantinople was occupied by the so-called ‘Latins’ for about 60 years, is very revealing in this respect. For example, elements of Western heraldry in the shape of heraldic shields or lion rampants were taken up, furthermore, elements of Islamic art were adapted. These complex processes have not been studied sufficiently and will be a focus of this conference. The papers generally deal with questions of typology, style, ornaments, materials, techniques, functions as well as dating and attribution of late Byzantine goldsmiths’ works, especially proposed new dating and interpretation.
Organisation: Dr. Antje Bosselmann-Ruickbie
Sponsorship:
Inneruniversitäre Forschungsförderung der Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Römisch-Germanisches Zentralmuseum, Leibniz-WissenschaftsCampus Mainz
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft DFG
Publications:
A. Bosselmann-Ruickbie (ed.), New Research on Late Byzantine Goldsmiths' Works (13th-15th Centuries). Neue Forschungen zur spätbyzantinischen Goldschmiedekunst (13.-15. Jahrhundert) (Mainz 2019).
