Images of Divine Order and the Third Mode of Seeing
Madeline H. Caviness
Modern theories of sequential styles and coexisting modes expression are reviewed in relation to Romanesque Gothic works. In both periods, the stasis symmetry heavenly figures contrasts with a disharmony that is associated temporal imperfection; two often used same work. A method expressing divine order through abstract structures traced back early neo-Platonic north European pagan images variety genres, including perfect geometric forms, symmetrical schemata, palindromes, monograms. These seen provide syntax, or underlying structure, for beings, those spiritually enlightened, man's position an ordered universe. Schemata were adapted, by addition representational elements, pictographs figured diagrams, they provided hidden structure fuller renderings visionary subjects. The examples discussed span ninth fourteenth century, though may have had greatest currency period. An attempt made correlate twelfth-century writers Theophilus' concern measure, variety, suggests he was aware important role played perhaps different modes, medieval composition. third mode seeing defined Richard St. Victor seems apply order.
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