Reading the Reverse Façade of Reims Cathedral. Royalty and Ritual in Thirteenth-Century France by Donna L. Sadler
Kristine Tanton
Reviewed by: Reading the Reverse Façade of Reims Cathedral. Royalty and Ritual in Thirteenth-Century France by Donna L. Sadler Kristine Tanton Sadler, (Burlington: Ashgate Publishing Company 2012) 250 pp., ill. In Cathedral, provides a detailed study what has long been recognized as one most beautiful works from second half thirteenth century. Yet it received little scholarly attention. assesses reverse façade both relation to sculptural program cathedral other visual programs associated with [End Page 328] royal court Louis IX. Through an analysis sculpture cathedral’s role coronation church, draws parallels between form content verso bishopric’s political king-maker. One main points book is that subject matter depicted sculpturally at “promoted interdependence ecclesiastical arms power” (12). notes decoration Gothic such was no means monolithic program, but collection multiple meanings for many audiences. She identifies primer moral behavior had value wide spectrum audiences ranging kings tavern owners. The begins addressing history cathedral, its architectural antecedents, sculpture’s iconography. Significantly, explores how storied past continued inspire cathedral. Noting iconographic encyclopedic scope, determines there emphasis on theme celestial terrestrial realms. Christ site king’s coronation, highlighted co-regency Christ. argues through iconography archbishops forged alliance throne altar, “fostered notion blessing simply required (20). By juxtaposing images Christ’s life, death, resurrection, Old Testament biblical heroes, baptism Clovis gallery kings, emphasized mission French ruler establish Christian kingdom earth necessary prelude Second Coming. goes explore sumptuously carved complement overall book’s chapter. although supplements story told west façade, also stands own. Virgin John Baptist particular moments when their lives intersect life sculpted figures Melchisedek, which are performing priestly duties, underlined significance king-making. functioning “sophisticated piece pedagogy directed neophyte king” (69). underscored presence generation spiritual temporal power, provided king lessons kingship. compelling arguments makes next chapter, she should be considered lens Mirror Princes game chess, were used instruct ways behavior. Hincmar prophets exempla newly anointed king. Building upon her earlier observation actively promoted importance ceremony, considers crucial played aligning...
Comitatus-a Journal of Medieval and Renaissance Studies