I've visited quite a few cathedrals lately, most notably Notre Dame, and I find myself constantly looking up focusing on the architecture and design of the ceiling, and never ceasing to be amazed by the amount of stained glass used to create that otherworldly light. The architects and artists seemed to focus their energy on the murals, crown moldings, and roofing arches- rather than on decorations at eye level. Most likely this was to draw the eye towards to heavens, where they had conveniently painted religious narratives chock full of peaceful angels and shimmering gold leaf. I saw an excessive amount of this decor in each room of the Chateau de Versailles, especially in the King's chambers where scenes symbolic of the country watching protectively over the king adorned the top parts of the wall and ceiling above the king's bed. Why are ceilings now so dull? Practicality and safety have molded today's styles while Home and Garden Television insists on neutral colors and adding accents elsewhere, but maybe it wouldn't be so horrible to wake every morning to some trompe l'oeil creation.Another reason I keep looking up would be the Gothic spires and gargoyles. Ironically, among the statues of Michael and various other arch angels and saints are the demonic features of the grotesque and the gargoyle- the human and animal-like stone carvings that were placed high above in the cathedrals' towers as symbolic guardians used to keep spirits away, as well as water spouts. While the foot of Saint Peter at was gradually being worn away by pilgrim like visitors, I climbed the towers of these buildings to have a close encounter with these imaginative sculptures. On a side note, I included the chimera of Sainte Michel's fountain, as I think it has similar purposes to grotesques and gargoyles but even more decorative.
No comments:
Post a Comment