2/4 Gold : A History of Art in Three Colours (Ep1)

Summary

This video explores the significance of gold in ancient and early Christian art. It traces the use of gold from the tombs of Tutankhamun, symbolizing eternity and divine power, to its role in early Christian iconography, where it represented the light of God. Despite Christianity's initial condemnation of wealth, gold became central in Christian art, especially in Byzantine icons. As time passed, gold became associated with power and prestige, particularly in the Renaissance, where kings and queens sought out the finest goldsmiths to showcase their wealth. The story also highlights the legacy of the great goldsmith Benvenuto Cellini.

Takeaways

• 😀 Gold was considered a magical substance in ancient Egypt, symbolizing the eternal and invincible power of the Sun God, as seen in the burial of Tutankhamun.
• 😀 Gold was used in ancient civilizations, not for wealth, but to reflect the divine and eternal, often representing gods and immortality.
• 😀 Christianity initially criticized the use of gold and material wealth, emphasizing modesty and humility, particularly in the portrayal of Christ.
• 😀 Despite early Christian rejection of gold, by the 5th century, Byzantine art began to use gold extensively in religious icons to represent the divine light of God.
• 😀 Gold in Christian iconography symbolized the light of God, with artists using it to create dynamic, radiant representations of divine presence.
• 😀 Icon paintings, particularly in the Byzantine tradition, were designed to be seen with candlelight, which would make the gold shimmer and bring the icons to life.
• 😀 The Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna showcases early Christian use of gold, particularly through gold tesserae that trap and amplify light, creating a divine atmosphere.
• 😀 Over time, gold in Christian art transformed from a symbol of divine light to one used in more worldly contexts, such as in Renaissance courtly displays of wealth.
• 😀 In the Renaissance, gold became a symbol of political power, with royalty and aristocrats commissioning extravagant goldwork for displays of wealth and status.
• 😀 Florence, especially the Ponte Vecchio, was a center for high-quality goldsmithing during the Renaissance, with artisans like Benvenuto Cellini creating works for Europe's elite.

Q & A

Why was gold used so extensively in ancient Egyptian tombs and art, especially in Tutankhamun's burial artifacts?

Gold was used in ancient Egyptian tombs and artifacts not as a display of wealth, but because Egyptians believed gold had magical powers. It symbolized the eternal and unchanging nature of the Sun and was associated with immortality, as it was believed to have the power to transform the deceased into an eternal, invincible Sun God.

What did the ancient Egyptians associate gold with?

The ancient Egyptians associated gold with the Sun. They believed that because gold had the same color as the powerful Sun and never tarnished, it possessed magical properties that could grant immortality and bring the deceased back to life.

How did Christianity's stance on gold and wealth differ from ancient traditions?

Early Christianity was highly critical of wealth and materialism, including gold. The Bible condemned those who were seduced by luxuries, and Christ was depicted as a humble figure. However, over time, Christian art began to incorporate gold, using it symbolically to represent immaterial things like the divine light of God.

Why did early Christian art begin to use gold despite Christianity’s initial condemnation of material wealth?

Christianity's early disapproval of gold gave way to its symbolic use in art. Artists began to use gold to represent divine light, not material wealth. The shimmering quality of gold in icons was seen as a way to symbolize the eternal and divine presence of God.

What is the significance of the golden background in Byzantine iconography?

In Byzantine iconography, the golden background symbolizes the all-pervading presence of God. Gold reflects light, creating a dynamic interaction between the artwork and the viewer, representing the divine light mingling with humanity and transcending earthly existence.

How did gold in Byzantine icons interact with light?

Gold in Byzantine icons was used to reflect and amplify light. When a candle was brought close to the painting, the gold’s color transformed, becoming vibrant and shimmering. This dynamic interaction with light was meant to convey the presence of divine light and create a connection between the viewer and the sacred.

What is the role of gold in the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna?

The Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna uses gold extensively in its mosaics. The gold tesserae (small pieces of glass) trap and amplify light, creating a sparkling effect that symbolizes the divine light of heaven. This technique was a key feature of Byzantine art, intended to make the viewer feel as though they were witnessing a glimpse of the Kingdom of Heaven.

What was the evolution of gold in art during the Renaissance?

During the Renaissance, the sacred use of gold in Christian art gave way to more secular uses, as gold became a symbol of power, wealth, and political status. Kings, queens, and courtiers sought goldwork to showcase their influence and prestige, and it was no longer reserved for religious purposes.

What role did Benvenuto Cellini play in the Renaissance goldsmithing tradition?

Benvenuto Cellini was a renowned Renaissance goldsmith who became famous for his exceptional craftsmanship. His works, such as golden jewelry and decorative pieces, were highly sought after by the aristocracy. His writings on goldsmithing techniques have remained influential in the tradition of goldwork.

Why was Benvenuto Cellini considered the greatest goldsmith of the Renaissance?

Benvenuto Cellini earned his reputation as the greatest goldsmith of the Renaissance due to his meticulous craftsmanship and innovative techniques. His ability to create exquisite and intricate works of art in gold made him highly esteemed among royalty and nobility, and his legacy continues to influence the craft.