The syncopated arcading of the St Hugh Choir in Lincoln Cathedral (ca. 1190–1200) has long intrigued scholars. Celebrated by Erwin Panofsky as “the most spectacular example” of medieval optical illusion, these and similar arcades have been considered in recent decades as an exploration in depth and space. However, relatively little attention has been paid to how this effect was achieved. This talk focuses on the coeval examples of Lincoln Cathedral and Beverley Minster. By using modern digital technologies, in a process of reverse engineering, it explores how the architectural elements have been manipulated in relation to the viewers’ position, to then explore whether these processes could be conceived in the framework of medieval practical geometry.
Speaker Bio:
Michele Luigi Vescovi is Associate Professor at the University of Lincoln. His research focuses on medieval art and architecture (ca. 800–1300) across Europe, with a primary focus on performance, ritual, and agency. His current work explores the intersections between the sacred and the environment, and the potential of digital technologies to enhance our understanding of medieval architecture.
Registration:
Register below, or via email to website@sahgb.org.uk.
Location
This SAHGB - IHR seminar will be a hybrid event, taking place online and in person at Senate House.
Institute of Historical Research, N304 (3rd Floor, North Block of Senate House, Malet St, London WC1E 7HU).
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Image: Wikimedia Commons