The Gothic Image: Religious Art in France of the Thirteenth Century

by Émile Mâle

Book Overview

Emile Male's book aids understanding of medieval art and medieval symbolism, and of the vision of the world which presided over the building of the French cathedrals. It looks at French religious art in the Middle Ages, its forms, and especially the Eastern sources of sculptural iconography used in the cathedrals of France. Fully illustrated with many footnotes it acts as a useful guide for the student of Western culture.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0064300323
• ISBN13: 9780064300322
• Release Date: January 1972
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 444 Pages
• Weight: 1.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.0" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Almost overdose of information

I originally found the Gothic Image at my school library when I was writing a paper. I enjoyed it so much that I kept the book for a clear two weeks past its due date and had to buy my own copy. Male provides a plethora of information about the symbolism behind the sculptures and images in the Gothic cathedrals. I recommend this book for anybody who is a fan of Gothic art.

Grab this Reprint

The Gothic Image captures through art and architecture the spirit and elan of the medieval renaissance in ways histories and biographies cannot. Unlike today, where contemporary art and architecture either may or may not mimic our age, the Gothic Image is an imprint of its time and place. Male leaves few artifacts unturned, and explores in so many different facets of the polysemy of its age. A must for every medievalist, and gem for artists, theologians, architects, and "builders" of meaning. This highly critical reviewer gives it full accolades, and recommends all interested parties to grab this reprint before it too fades from view!

Late Middle Ages Overview

I can think of no better introduction, as well as comprehensive review, of the medieval renaissance than this wonderful synthesis of medieval art and medieval sacramentalism, wherein the whole universe, from stellar constellations, to the gargoyle atop cathedral buttresses, comes alive in all its many dimensions. This book, long out of print, was the gem of my undergraduate work in medieval history, philosophy, art, and architecture. The price is a bit steep, but this one book can remain a perpetual resource for insight, understanding, and knowledge of a different time and place -- so foreign and alien to today's historicity, but that captures the imagination and never lets go.