Date of Award

5-11-2018

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Art and Design

First Advisor

John R. Decker

Second Advisor

Susan Richmond

Third Advisor

Maria Gindhart

Abstract

The Master of Mary of Burgundy illuminated the Hours of Engelbert of Nassau specifically to fulfill the needs of the nobility of the Burgundian Court. By analyzing three different pages, I reveal that the Master created an “alternative reality” through the use of trompe l’oeil and other modes of highly illusionistic representation. In order to appeal to the concept of vivre noblement, or “living nobly,” the Master introduces the page as an accessible mental environment, allowing the viewer to shift between layers of reality with ease. The visual and mental intricacy actively immerses the viewer and promotes ideas of positional and spiritual authority, connecting them to the ideas of a courtly splendor.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.57709/11998243

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