Charlemagne And Charles The Bald Summary

Peter Lasko is a British art historian from London, England. Lasko wrote Ars Sacra, 800-1200 in 1972 to analyze and critique Carolingian art from the 9th to 13th centuries. Peter Lasko surveyed the the reigns of particular rulers during the Carolingian Era such as Charlemagne and Charles the Bald, examining the art during these periods and comparing them with each other. He focuses primarily on the architecture and embellished trinkets of the time period. Lasko describes the parochial influence and “indigenous Merovingian traditions” that were still holding prestige well into the 9th century (Lasko 8). During Charlemagne’s reign, Lasko recounts the influence of his court on the art produced throughout his rule. He describes the decorative scripts such as “The Godscale Lectionary” and the “Egino Codex” and how they remained a “lasting contribution to the Carolingian era” (19). Lasko touches upon the architecture of the time, focusing on church affiliated edifices and illustrating its magnificent

His “intention of sumptuous splendor” showed with clarity through the tremendous amount of artwork he displayed in his palace (52). Lasko particularly examined the King’s throne in his palace and how he has the entire throne detailed with images of himself and his court, engraved with the phrase,“The Laborers of Hercules” (61). One particular carving which stood out, was a book cover which depicted the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, with jewels and vibrant gems lining the page. This book was so important to the king that he insisted it was buried along with him. Peter Lasko elucidated the importance of the last king of the Carolingians and how his artwork played a large influence in Frankish culture; Charles the Bald and Charlemagne were more “sumptuous and self-confident” than the many previous Carolingian rulers which clearly showed through their palace art and architecture