The Arthurian Legend in Medieval Monumental Art
Abstract
Arthurian topics feature in medieval mural painting and sculpture in architecture from the early twelfth century onwards. The ‘spatial’ aspects of these art forms were ideal for medieval patrons to represent and promote themselves to others. They competed through monumental art – be it in their own residence, a town hall, or a church – to show their identity and status. This chapter traces the main trends, iconographical topics, and influences, with consideration of the social and political function of the representation of Arthur and his knights in medieval monumental art.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Medieval European History and Architecture
Medieval Literature and History
Historical
Literary
and Cultural Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Cambridge University Press eBooks
- Pages
- 562–584
- Publication date
- 12 January 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter