Not to be too mean to medieval artists, since they’re much better at art than I am, but why do they always have such weird-ass anatomy? Would it have been that difficult to have someone pose for reference?
You’ll need to find an extended explanation on your own but in essence - religion. The focus is on symbolism, and not on realism as it diverts attention and doesn’t help you describe scenes from the bible.
I remember seeing some examples of paintings made by the same artists for secular and religious purposes, and the secular ones were realistic. But it’s been quite a few years ago and the only thing I remember is that they might have been Italian painters working in the Eastern Roman empire that were recognised due to the messed up alphabet.
Not to be too mean to medieval artists, since they’re much better at art than I am, but why do they always have such weird-ass anatomy? Would it have been that difficult to have someone pose for reference?
You’ll need to find an extended explanation on your own but in essence - religion. The focus is on symbolism, and not on realism as it diverts attention and doesn’t help you describe scenes from the bible.
I remember seeing some examples of paintings made by the same artists for secular and religious purposes, and the secular ones were realistic. But it’s been quite a few years ago and the only thing I remember is that they might have been Italian painters working in the Eastern Roman empire that were recognised due to the messed up alphabet.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reverse_perspective
It’s meant to be viewed at a distance. :)
Reverse perspective is more about symbolism than distance AFAIK
Still doesn’t explain red guy’s contorted limbs and head, though.
The artist had a model. but he moved too much in this scene and they didn’t find another one willing afterwards.