Modena Cathedral
Type:
Churches
Date:
Started in 1099 and consecrated in 1184
Location or Findspot (Modern-Day Country):
Italy
Description:
Construction of Modena Cathedral began in 1099 and is associated with the architect Lanfranco (active in Modena ca. 1099–1110) and the sculptor Wiligelmo (or Wiligelmus; active ca. 1099–1120). It was consecrated in 1184. Large parts of its brick structure are faced with stone materials from ancient Modena. Wiligelmo's exterior relief carvings include prophets, patriarchs, and Genesis scenes (e.g., Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel). The slightly later north portal (1120–40), carved by an unknown artist referred to as the "Arthur Master," includes early representations of the Arthurian legend. Some of the characters are identifiable by their inscriptions, for example "Artus de Bretania" (Arthur of Britain), "Galvagin" (probably Gawain), and "Winlogee" (probably Guinevere).
Relevant Textbook Chapter(s):
7,
8
Repository and Online Resources:
• Modena Cathedral is part of UNESCO's World Heritage List.
Image Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
