SCULPTURE
Sculptural work had in fact disappeared from vast parts of Europe for centuries, making a comeback with the advent of the Romanesque era in a grandiose form. Portals, capitals and furnishings being enhanced by relief work which conveyed both biblical and lay themes, being inspired both by classical mythology and nature. Thereby giving rise to a great stylistic liberty, enhanced with a great capacity for abstraction. Whilst the influences of antiquity are clearly present in the monumental heritage of Rome, there are also other influences: Byzantine, Germanic or originating from the Syrian or Armenian orient.
An art form which aspired to spiritual education, and effectively transmits the desire to transmit transcendental values. This feature later disappeared on the arrival of the Gothic style.