This study examines the narrative paintings of the Passion of Christ created in Italy during the thirteenth century. Demonstrating the radical changes that occurred in the depiction of the Passion cycle during the Duecento, a period that has traditionally been dismissed as artistically stagnant, Anne Derbes analyses the relationship between these new images and similar renderings found in Byzantine sources. She argues that the Franciscan order, which was active in the Levant by the 1230s, was largely responsible for introducing these images into Italy. But Byzantine art was not imported for its irresistible attraction, as has previously been argued. Rather, Derbes contends, Byzantine images served as vital models, providing formal and iconographic solutions that could be adapted to the Franciscans' own spiritual programme.

A study of thirteenth-century Italian narrative paintings of the Passion of Christ.
Reviews
'This book is an exemplum of the best 'new' art history in its analysis of texts, social setting and art production.' The Art Newspaper
' ... a very stimulating book'. History
'This is a quite admirable example of art history at its best.' The Heythrop Journal



Book Information
ISBN 9780521639262
Author Anne Derbes
Format Paperback
Page Count 290
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 772g
Dimensions(mm) 255mm * 205mm * 20mm