samplerz.com A reredos is an ornamental screen or decoration positioned behind an altar in a sanctuary, often depicting religious figures or scenes. One famous example is the reredos in the Sanctuary of San Juan de los Reyes in Toledo, Spain, which features intricate Gothic carvings and polychrome details. This reredos serves both as a focal point for worshipers and a testament to the craftsmanship of the late 15th century. Another notable example is the reredos in St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City, consisting of detailed marble reliefs and gilded accents illustrating biblical narratives. The use of various materials such as wood, stone, and precious metals highlights the artistic and symbolic importance of the altar area. These reredos not only enhance the aesthetic value of the sanctuary but also contribute to the religious storytelling within the sacred space.
Table of Comparison
| Reredos Name | Artist/Creator | Location | Period | Material | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ghent Altarpiece | Hubert and Jan van Eyck | St Bavo's Cathedral, Ghent, Belgium | Early 15th Century | Oil on panel | Polyptych altarpiece renowned for its detailed depiction of biblical scenes. |
| The Reredos of Santa Maria la Real de La Almudena | Jose de Churriguera | Almudena Cathedral, Madrid, Spain | 18th Century | Wood and gilding | Highly ornate Baroque reredos with religious figures and decorative motifs. |
| High Altar Reredos, Ely Cathedral | Unknown (Medieval Craftsmen) | Ely Cathedral, England | 14th Century | Stone and paint | Medieval reredos featuring sculptural scenes from the life of Christ. |
| Sanctuary Reredos of St. Mary's Basilica | Ferdinand Wagner | St. Mary's Basilica, Krakow, Poland | 19th Century | Wood and polychrome | Neo-Gothic reredos depicting saints and biblical narratives in vivid colors. |
Introduction to Reredos in Sanctuaries
Reredos in sanctuaries serve as ornate backdrops behind altars, often crafted from wood, stone, or metal and adorned with religious iconography or biblical scenes. These intricate structures enhance the spiritual atmosphere, guiding worshippers' focus toward sacred narratives and central liturgical elements. Prominent examples include the Gothic reredos at St. Mary's Basilica, featuring detailed carvings of saints and apostles that highlight the intersection of art and devotion.
Historical Evolution of Sanctuary Reredos
Sanctuary reredos have evolved significantly from the early medieval period, showcasing intricate Gothic retables adorned with biblical scenes and saints. Renaissance reredos introduced classical architectural elements alongside vivid oil paintings, reflecting humanist influences and artistic advancements. Baroque sanctuary reredos became grander and more theatrical, emphasizing dynamic sculptures and gilded details to inspire awe and devotion.
Notable Medieval Reredos Examples
The reredos in the Sanctuary of Saint-Denis, crafted in the 12th century, stands as a pioneering example of medieval sacred art with its intricate sculptural panels depicting biblical scenes. Another notable example is the reredos of the Cathedral of Toledo, Spain, featuring detailed Gothic-style carvings and polychrome elements from the 14th century. The Ghent Altarpiece by Jan van Eyck, though primarily an altarpiece, serves a reredos function with its complex iconography and masterful use of oil paint influencing medieval and Renaissance altar art.
Renaissance Masterpieces: Reredos in European Sanctuaries
Renaissance masterpieces in European sanctuaries feature reredos that showcase intricate sculptural details and vibrant polychrome decorations, exemplified by the elaborate altarpiece in the Church of San Benito in Valladolid, Spain. These reredos often depict biblical scenes and saints with an emphasis on naturalism and classical proportions, reflecting the humanist ideals of the Renaissance. The integration of gilded woodwork and painted panels demonstrates the period's fusion of artistic innovation and religious devotion.
Gothic Reredos: Iconic Features and Examples
Gothic reredos are characterized by intricate stone or wood carvings, tall pointed arches, and richly detailed religious iconography that often includes scenes from the Bible and saints. Notable examples include the Thornham Parva Retable in England, which showcases vibrant polychrome painting and detailed narrative panels, and the reredos of Santa Maria del Mar in Barcelona, known for its grandeur and elaborate Gothic tracery. These features highlight the Gothic style's emphasis on verticality, ornate decoration, and storytelling through sacred art.
Baroque Reredos: Ornate Designs in Sacred Spaces
Baroque reredos in sanctuary spaces showcase intricate craftsmanship characterized by elaborate gilding, dynamic sculptures, and vibrant polychrome details. These ornate altarpieces often feature dramatic narratives from biblical scenes, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere through rich symbolism and theatrical aesthetics. Prominent examples include the colossal reredos in churches like Seville Cathedral and Santa Maria della Salute in Venice, which exemplify the artistry and religious fervor of the Baroque period.
Contemporary Reredos: Modern Interpretations in Sanctuaries
Contemporary reredos in sanctuaries feature abstract designs and innovative materials such as glass, metal, and LED lighting, reflecting modern artistic expressions while maintaining sacred symbolism. Artists like Daniel Liebeskind and Santiago Calatrava have introduced sculptural elements that integrate architecture with spiritual narratives. These modern interpretations redefine traditional altar backdrops, creating immersive spaces that engage worshippers through dynamic visual storytelling.
International Highlights: Reredos from Around the World
The reredos in the Sanctuary of San Miguel Arcangel in Spain exemplifies intricate Gothic woodcarving, featuring gilded panels and religious iconography that date back to the 15th century. In Italy, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major houses a Renaissance marble reredos by Andrea Bregno, showcasing classical motifs and sculptural reliefs that emphasize the grandeur of the altar. The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico presents a Baroque reredos with vibrant polychrome decorations and elaborate gold leaf, reflecting the fusion of European and Indigenous artistic traditions.
Famous Artists and Workshops Behind Sanctuary Reredos
Famous artists such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini and workshops like the Taller de los Retablos in Seville played pivotal roles in crafting intricate sanctuary reredos during the Baroque period. Their masterful carvings and gilded sculptures transformed sacred spaces, combining artistic innovation with religious symbolism. The collaborative efforts of painters, sculptors, and gilders ensured each reredos became a focal point of visual storytelling in Christian sanctuaries.
Conservation and Restoration of Historic Reredos
Historic reredos, often crafted from wood, stone, or gilded metal, require meticulous conservation to preserve intricate details and original pigments. Restoration techniques include careful cleaning, structural stabilization, and the use of reversible materials to maintain authenticity while preventing further deterioration. Specialized expertise in art historical research guides interventions, ensuring that restorations respect the reredos' cultural significance and original craftsmanship.
example of reredos in sanctuary Infographic