Tympanum

Definition

A tympanum is the semi-circular or triangular area above the entrance of a church, typically filled with sculptural reliefs. These reliefs often convey important narratives or themes that reflect religious beliefs and iconography, serving both decorative and didactic purposes in Gothic architecture. The tympanum is a key feature in many cathedrals, highlighting significant biblical stories and saints that are central to the Christian faith.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tympana often depict scenes from the Last Judgment, with Christ in majesty surrounded by angels and the saved and damned, serving as a moral reminder for worshippers.
2. The use of tympana became especially prominent during the High Gothic period, reflecting the increasing importance of visual storytelling in cathedrals.
3. Each tympanum can be unique to its cathedral, showcasing regional styles and specific theological themes that were relevant to the local community.
4. Artisans and architects worked together to design tympana that not only beautified the entrances but also educated visitors about key aspects of faith.
5. The iconographic programs seen in tympana were intended to inspire awe and contemplation, guiding the viewer's spiritual journey before entering the sacred space of the church.

Review Questions

• How does the design of a tympanum enhance the overall experience of entering a Gothic cathedral?
  • The design of a tympanum enhances the overall experience by visually narrating important biblical stories or themes that prepare visitors for worship. As individuals approach the entrance, they are greeted by intricate sculptures that convey messages of faith and morality. This artistic feature creates an immediate connection to the spiritual significance of the building, setting a tone of reverence and contemplation before entering.
• Discuss how the thematic content of tympana reflects the theological principles of Gothic architecture.
  • The thematic content of tympana directly reflects theological principles by illustrating key narratives from scripture and emphasizing moral teachings. For example, scenes from the Last Judgment not only depict Christ's role as savior but also serve as reminders of accountability for one's actions. This focus on salvation, redemption, and divine order aligns with Gothic architecture's aim to elevate the soul towards God through light and beauty, reinforcing faith through visual representation.
• Evaluate how changes in artistic styles during different periods influenced the evolution of tympanum design throughout Gothic architecture.
  • Changes in artistic styles during various periods significantly influenced tympanum design by shifting from rigid forms and simple narratives to more dynamic compositions with expressive figures and complex iconography. Early Romanesque tympana were often more abstract and focused on symbolic representations, while later High Gothic examples embraced realism, depth, and emotional expression. This evolution mirrors broader trends in art where there was a growing emphasis on individualism and human experience, culminating in richer storytelling that engaged viewers at both emotional and intellectual levels.

Related terms

Relief Sculpture: A sculptural technique where figures are carved into a flat background, creating a three-dimensional effect, commonly used in tympana to depict scenes.

Portal: The grand entrance or doorway of a church, often adorned with elaborate sculptures including tympana that enhance the visual storytelling of the façade.

Iconography:

The visual images, symbols, and motifs used in art and architecture to convey particular meanings or messages, essential for understanding the narratives depicted in tympana.