You are here

Global Perspectives

Exploring The Art of Devotion

February 9, 2010 Through May 30, 2010

In the Permanent Collection Galleries

mh_1964_7_l_pi_v1-hpr.jpg

Maker unknown (Flemish), Book of Hours (detail), 15th century
Photo Credit: 

Laura Shea

devo_mh_1956_36_a_g_v1-hpr.jpg

Maker unknown (Egyptian), Block statue of the scribe Amunwahsu, 1386-1278 BCE
Photo Credit: 

Petegorsky/Gipe

mh_1964_7_l_pi_v1-hpr.jpg

Page from a Book of Hours, 15th century

Maker Unknown (Flemish)
Opaque watercolor on vellum with brown leather binding
1964.7.L.PI

Maker unknown (Flemish), Book of Hours (detail), 15th century

devo_mh_1956_36_a_g_v1-hpr.jpg

Block statue of the scribe Amunwahsu, 1386-1278 BCE 

Maker unknown (Egyptian)
Limestone and plaster, originally painted
1956.36.A.G

Maker unknown (Egyptian), Block statue of the scribe Amunwahsu, 1386-1278 BCE

The expressive power of visual art to articulate important religious values as well as complicated spiritual beliefs has been utilized by artists throughout the ages. From elaborate sculptures representing important deities, to paintings of sacred spaces, to small vessels that mediate contact between the earthly realm and the divine, devotional artwork has served an essential function for those pursuing spiritual understanding.

This companion exhibition to The Art of Devotion: Panel Painting in Early Renaissance Italy explores devotional traditions manifest in visual art from a diverse array of cultures and time periods.  Reflecting both the thoughtful interpretations and scholarly expertise of contributing faculty, students, staff,and other friends of the Museum, the accompanying texts and brochure seek to provide insight into why these objects have inspired humans of every tradition, enhancing their faith and connecting them to a higher purpose.

Rachel Beaupré and Ellen Alvord, Project Coordinators

View a pdf of the exhibition brochure.