In the Stone Age, indigenous peoples of Ireland and Scotland developed a complex visual culture around their shamanistic religion, involving ecstatic voyages into the spirit realm. The influx of other shamanistic peoples from the continent, including the Celts, introduced metalworking to the area, and brought the influence of the Romans, but only indirectly: Ireland and Scotland were always beyond the political borders of the Empire. The more direct and lasting European impact would come when Roman Catholic missionaries arrived in the Early Medieval period, bringing literacy with them, and building monasteries, erecting stone crosses, and illuminating gospel books. Art historian Brenda Edgar will help you dig down through all the layers!
Join us for our “Art History Illustrated” talk series, held the third Thursday of every month at 5:30 p.m. This monthly illustrated talk series is presented by art historian Brenda Edgar, in collaboration with the Carnegie Center for Art and History.
