BOOK: GARDNER’S ART THROUGH THE AGES 16TH EDITION (A GLOBAL HISTORY, VOL 1) – FRED S. KLEINER
***Instructions ***
This exam is self-paced and open-notes, open-book. I expect you to rely heavily on the textbook when
researching and writing your responses; however, copying text word-for-word or even paraphrasing is
unacceptable and will result in a zero. Make sure if you are quoting the textbook, you cite it using an
accepted style guide (Chicago, MLA, APA). I require in-text citations for ALL submitted work.
***WRITE A BRIEF ESSAY 300/400 words FOR EACH ANSWER***
Essay Question 1 – Prehistoric Art (chapter 1) :
What are the common motifs found in cave paintings such as those at Lascaux and Altamira? Compare and contrast at least one image from each location. Summarize the current theories about their original meaning and purpose.
Essay Question 2 – Ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt (chapter 2 and
3) :
Select two works of art – one from Chapter 2 and one from Chapter 3 that best represents the complex relationship between kingship and divinity. Discuss how each work preserves and/or promotes the legacy of their associated ruler/king/ruling-class and how commissioned works of art and/or architecture can be used as a tool to influence and express power.
Essay Question 3 – Prehistoric Aegean, Ancient Greece, and the
Etruscans (chapters 4,5 & 6):
Mythological events and figures are often used artistically as a metaphor when ancient arts depict historical figures or events. Why is this practice common in Ancient Greece? Give one example of a work of art that illustrates this tradition and tell me about how it is a good example by using specific visual details.
Essay Question 4 – Rome & Late Antiquity (chapter 7-8) :
Discuss the relationship of civic building programs and imperial politics in the ancient Roman Empire. Give at least TWO examples to support your discussion, using visual and contextual details.
Essay Question 5 Byzantium and Late Antiquity (chapter 9):
Identify and discuss the persistence of classical traditions in art produced in the Early, Middle, and Late Byzantine periods. Use at least ONE example of art from each era to illustrate your points.
Essay Question 6 – Islamic Art (chapter 10) :
Explain the complex geometric patterning evident in the decorative elements of Islamic architecture such as mosaic, tilework, brickwork, and woodcarving. Use examples at least TWO works of art for your discussion.
Essay Question 7 (and 8) – Early through Late Medieval (chapters 11-
14):
B. Define the term Romanesque and give at least one example of architecture that meets this definition. Discuss why this structure is a good example of “Romanesque” architecture – be specific with details. Discuss how Romanesque similar and dissimilar from the architectural styles that come before and after. Use examples.
C. Discuss the influence of Northern European art and motifs on the rest of European medieval visual culture. Select at least TWO works of art that best illustrate the presence and influence of NorthernEuropean designs/art/motifs in other regions of Europe.
***EXTRA CREDIT : 200 / 250 WORDS EACH ANSWER***
B. Define the term Lux Nova in medieval terms and identify the person who coined the phrase/term. Discuss what this term meant to him and its role in igniting the building of the great Cathedrals.
D. Define the term Chi-Ro-Iota – what is this and why is it important? When is it first used as a tool for imperial power? Be specific with at least one example of where it can be seen today.
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