Jerusalem, 1000-1400

"Medieval Jerusalem was a vibrant international center and home to multiple cultures, faiths, and languages. Harmonious and dissonant influences from Persian, Turkish, Greek, Syrian, Armenian, Georgian, Coptic, Ethiopian, Indian, and European traditions gave Jerusalem a key role in shaping art produced for both secular and religious purposes. Patrons and artists from Christian, Jewish, and Islamic traditions alike focused their attention on the Holy City, endowing and enriching its sacred buildings and creating luxury goods for its residents. This artistic fertility was particularly in evidence between the 11th and 14th centuries, notwithstanding often devastating circumstances--from the earthquake of 1033 to the fierce battles of the Crusades. So strong a magnet was Jerusalem that it drew out the creative imagination of even those separated from it by great distance. Through compelling essays and focused discussions of more than 200 works of art, Jerusalem, 1000-1400 breaks new ground in exploring the relationship between the historical and the archetypal city of Jerusalem and uncovers the way in which the aesthetic achievements it inspired enhanced and enlivened the medieval world."--