Bernward and Eve at Hildesheim
Adam S. Cohen|Anne Derbes
The bronze doors of Hildesheim (ca. 1007-1015), commissioned by Bishop Bernward, are famous for their sophisticated typological program, which conveys a message about the Fall humanity and opposition Eve Mary. Divergences from door's pictorial models indicate that program at innovatively represents as sexually provocative woman. Although grounded in patristic theology, Bernward's presentation reflects contemporary clerical concerns. At time were executed, bishop was locked struggle with Sophia, abbess Gandersheim. biographers describe her malevolent dissolute; themselves constitute subtle polemical argument against dangers posed seductive insolent women.
Gesta