Gothic art

Gothic art, emerging in the mid-12th century and flourishing until the 16th century, is characterized by its emphasis on verticality and light, manifesting predominantly in architecture, sculpture, and stained glass. Originating in the Île-de-France region, it is distinguished by the use of pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, which facilitated the construction of soaring cathedrals with expansive windows. Thematically, Gothic art is deeply rooted in Christian iconography, aiming to convey spiritual transcendence and divine presence. This period saw the proliferation of intricate sculptures and illuminated manuscripts, which often depicted biblical narratives and saints with heightened naturalism and emotional expression. Gothic art significantly influenced the development of later artistic movements, particularly the Renaissance, by fostering advancements in architectural engineering and the portrayal of human emotion and realism in visual arts.