The phrase “medieval glass” evokes images of stained glass windows. But there is another world of medieval glass: objects made for daily use. This is the first exhibition in the United States devoted to glass made for the use of popes, princes, and peasants in the Middle Ages.
The Middle Ages lasted from the fall of the Roman Empire in the fifth century AD to the rise of the Renaissance in the 15th century. During this period, Europe was transformed: from a complex society administered from cities to scattered rural communities and back again; from an empire-wide economy to small-scale exchange systems that over the centuries evolved into international networks of trade; and from a world that abandoned advanced technology, then regrouped and built the architectural marvels of the Renaissance.
Glassmaking, too, was transformed. After the fall of Rome, all but the simplest techniques were forgotten. But, over the centuries, the quality, quantity, and repertoire of glassware increased. In the later Middle Ages, local products were joined by luxurious glasses imported from the Islamic world and, by the 15th century, the stage was set for the golden age of Venetian glassmaking.
The Middle Ages lasted from the fall of the Roman Empire in the fifth century AD to the rise of the Renaissance in the 15th century. During this period, Europe was transformed: from a complex society administered from cities to scattered rural communities and back again; from an empire-wide economy to small-scale exchange systems that over the centuries evolved into international networks of trade; and from a world that abandoned advanced technology, then regrouped and built the architectural marvels of the Renaissance.
Glassmaking, too, was transformed. After the fall of Rome, all but the simplest techniques were forgotten. But, over the centuries, the quality, quantity, and repertoire of glassware increased. In the later Middle Ages, local products were joined by luxurious glasses imported from the Islamic world and, by the 15th century, the stage was set for the golden age of Venetian glassmaking.
Corning Museum of Glass 15.05.2010 - 02.01.2011
Website : Corning
