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Medieval Crafts

DATES July 01, 1949 through September 05, 1949
ORGANIZING DEPARTMENT Decorative Arts
There are currently no digitized images of this exhibition. If images are needed, contact archives.research@brooklynmuseum.org.
  • July 1, 1949 A summer exhibition, “Medieval Craft”, opened today, July 1 at the Brooklyn Museum, and will remain on view through Sept. 5. Devoted to the work of men who lived in what was the heyday of craftsmen, the exhibition emphasizes the charm, color, and originality found in medieval enamels, illuminated manuscripts, metalwork, embroidery, and stained glass.

    Artisans working in the anonymity of the Middle Ages, often limited by the religious themes assigned to them, lavished their skill and imagination on the interpretation of these themes. Choir stalls with seats which fold back to show scenes carved on the bottom, water containers in the shape of fanciful beasts, embroideries with the rich beauty of miniature painting which were designed for church vestments - all demonstrate the creative gifts of such craftsmen.

    The exhibition includes objects from the museum’s permanent collection, as well as enamels and embroideries from the collection of Mr. and Mrs. A. Bradley Martin. A stained glass panel of the 13th century is lent by Ray W. Smith of Arlington, Va. A small supplementary exhibit of material from the Brooklyn Museum’s library and Loan Room is designed to show the public some of the study aids in the medieval field which are available in the museum’s service departments.

    Brooklyn Museum Archives. Records of the Department of Public Information. Press releases, 1947 - 1952. 07-09/1949, 073.
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