The Holy Roman Empire and wealthy patrons commissioned the majority of paintings during this time period. As a result, Christianity and The Saints were the majority of subjects with The Virgin Mary with the Baby Jesus and Christ’s Crucifixion as being the most commonly depicted scenes.

The “gold” seen in these paintings is real gold that the artist melted down and used as paint. To see it in person is mind-blowing. 

I’ll leave the Ethics of this up to you to debate. 

The “halo” is featured in almost every painting, signifying the “Sacred” position of the Subject. 

The most endearing quality about Medieval Art is the detail that is hidden inside every piece. Only a trained eye can catch all of it. Every detail, every bird, every hand position, every article of clothing was strategic, had a metaphorical meaning, and was by deliberate design. 

Leave no stone unturned. Medieval Art is a treasure trove for the Art Scavenger Hunt. 

Pay attention to “rays of light” and “light beams.” Pay attention to small ornaments and birds. Look for animals. Zoom in and study the paintings. Each painting is an abundance of hidden meaning. 

And with gold painted right into the book and/or cloth, the art patron spared no expense. Literally.

Due to the amount of detail that most people will undoubtedly miss, I strongly recommend making a trip to The Met and paying the money for the audio tours. Go to the Cloisters in New York. It is the only way you will be able to “catch” all the details in these paintings and — for Medieval Art — it is well worth the trip.