Seide im früh- und hochmittelalterlichen Frauenstift
Book Description
This scholarly exploration delves into the fascinating intersection of precious textiles and medieval religious life, revealing how exquisite silk fabrics became powerful symbols within early Christian communities. The author examines how valuable silks from Byzantium and Central Asia, comparable in worth to gold and precious stones, found their way into religious institutions through networks of gift-giving and political relationships.
At the heart of this investigation lies the intriguing case of Abbess Mathilde's ornate garment depicted on the Mathilden-Otto Cross in Essen. Through careful analysis of this and other examples, the work uncovers the deeper meanings embedded in these luxurious textiles and the messages they conveyed to medieval viewers about spiritual authority and divine favor.
The study illuminates a remarkable practice of transformation, where secular silk treasures were repurposed for sacred use, particularly as wrappings for holy relics. These small silk fragments, many of extraordinary quality, represent a unique form of spiritual recycling that speaks to medieval attitudes toward material beauty and religious devotion.
Drawing on recent research into these preserved textiles, this work offers readers insight into how medieval religious communities navigated the tension between worldly luxury and spiritual purpose. The book reveals how these precious fabrics served not merely as decoration, but as tangible expressions of faith, power, and cultural connection across medieval Europe.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~8 hours)
📄 Length: 288 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore Medieval Textile fabrics
- ✓ Explore Convents
- ✓ Explore Christian art and symbolism
- ✓ Explore Christianity
- ✓ Explore Religious articles
- ✓ Explore Monasticism and religious orders for women
- ✓ Explore Silk
