Gold Wreath

Hellenistic, about 350-300 BC

From the Dardanelles (modern Turkey)

British Museum

Fra Angelico’s Annunciation

I’ve loved this painting since I was a kid. Mary and Gabriel are so serene, and I have always loved how peaceful the scene is. The palate of gorgeous neutrals is warm and inviting. Although it originally was much more vibrant, I like what time has done to the fresco (blasphemy!). 

Recently, I’ve been intrigued by late Gothic sculpture. I absolutely love gothic architecture, but I’ve only recently learned more about the sculptures of the era. Unlike with the images of people in manuscripts, sculptures are realistic and full of life. Sculptures that have been outdoors for centuries have been stripped of their paint, which would have made them even more strikingly lifelike. 

My favorite so far has been a female saint figure from the aisle of Cologne Cathedral in Germany. I’ve scoured the internet, but I haven’t found any images of the sculpture. I’ll have to grab one from my book later!

Pictured: The Three Magi from Strasbourg Cathedral 

Young Hare by Albrecht Durer

Watercolor

1502

Chartres Cathedral is the most inspiring structure I’ve ever visited. The cathedral was completed around 1250, making it the most outstanding example of the high gothic style in France. 

I found I was drawn to the stained glass more than anything in the church. The giant rose windows brought vibrant colored light to the towering high ceilings, and the windows along the aisles were ornate and breathtaking up close. Being able to pick out the Tree of Jesse window and decipher other biblical stories in the panes of glass was such a cool experience.

I really hope I can get the chance to visit this massive beauty again.