I'm not sure about the S. Benigne sculpture - you're right about the
different levels of finish, it is puzzling. I seem to remember that when
found (in the 18th c.?) they were plastered over, suggesting that they
were unfinished. Certainly only two of the capitals have the figures,
suggesting that there was a change of plan. So why get rid of the
orants? (Probably because you can't see anything down there anyway!)
chris
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Richard Landes [SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
> Sent: 23 August 1999 21:51
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: RE: praying gestures
>
> At 09:33 AM 8/23/99 +0100, you wrote:
> >If you want a good orant, may I recommend the capitals from the
> rotunda
> >crypt in S. Benigne, Dijon, from the early-mid 11th c.? They have a
> >pretty crazy posture.
> >
> >Chris Dell
>
> they are interesting, with each succeeding side becoming more detailed
> in
> its sculpting, and the final one (most detailed one) having pupils in
> the
> eyes. (i *am* assuming it goes from less to more detailed.)
>
> the description of the peace assemblies of 1033 has glaber describing
> the
> crowds as, palm extended to heaven, shouting peace peace peace. the
> description of the crowds in limoges responding to urban's call to
> crusade
> geoffrey de vigeois describes as crouched with their heads bowed
> down... a
> posture appropriate for joined hands.
>
> richard
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