Courtly Culture

Aquamanile in the Form of a Mounted Knight, late 13th century German; Made in Saxony Bronze; H. 15 in. (38.1 cm) Gift of Irwin Untermyer, 1964 (64.101.1492) www.metmuseum.org

Elite medieval culture was often a courtly culture. This reference to "courts" does not refer to courts of law but to centers of power around the body of the king, caliph or political leader. Islamic and European art produced by the courts is marked by figurative imagery -- ladies and warriors are depicted writing poems, falling in love and conspiring against their enemies.

Royal Patronage       Warrior Culture       Figurative Art      

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