Weekend Stories
I enjoy going exploring on weekends (mostly). Here is a collection of stories and photos I gather along the way.
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Chinese scholar’s rocks
The Museum of East Asian Art in Cologne is currently hosting an enlightening exhibition on Chinese scholar’s rocks, also known as gōngshí. The exhibition features a wide range of rocks from renowned regions such as Yingde in Guangdong, Liuyang in Hunan, and Lake Tai in Jiangsu. The rocks are displayed alongside other objects such as writing brushes, ink stones, and porcelain vessels. It provides a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Chinese scholar’s rocks and their significance in Chinese art and literature.
From Qingdao to Cologne: 50 Masterpieces of East Asian art
The Oriental Endowment for the Promotion of East Asian Art in Cologne celebrates its 50th anniversary with a remarkable exhibition of 50 masterpieces of East Asian art. The exhibition is running at the Museum of East Asian Art and has now been extended until the end of September 2024. It’s a great opportunity to see some of the most beautiful pieces of East Asian art, covering a wide range of art forms, including ceramics, bronzes, paintings, and sculptures from China, Japan, and Korea. The pieces are drawn from the museum’s collection, which was founded by Hans-Wilhelm Siegel, a businessman, patron and collector of East Asian art.
From Gothic to Zen: Comparing medieval Western and Eastern wooden sculptures
The art of wood sculpture, prevalent in both medieval Europe and East Asia, offers a fascinating study in contrasts and similarities. While both regions developed rich traditions in wood carving, their cultural, religious, and artistic trajectories shaped distinct styles and themes. Here is a brief comparison of selected medieval European and East Asian wooden sculptures.
Silent narrators: Medieval wood sculptures
During my recent visits to churches and medieval museums, I was impressed by the remarkable craftsmanship and artistic expression of wooden sculptures. These sculptures, primarily driven by religious themes, offer a unique window into the medieval mind, its craftsmanship, and its spiritual quests. Here are some shots of my favorite wood sculptures that I captured during my last visits to the Museum Schnütgen and other places in Cologne.
The Bright Age: The vibrant colors of medieval Christian art
The term ‘Dark Ages’, often used to describe the medieval period, conjures images of a grim, colorless world, shrouded in piety and the ultimate fear of God. However, this portrayal is a far cry from the reality of medieval life, especially when it comes to art. During a recent visit to the Wallraf-Richartz Museum in Cologne, I was struck by the vibrant colors, the richness of detail and imagination, and the criticism of secular and clerical authority often inherent in medieval Christian imagery. Here are some of my favorite artworks, hopefully shedding some light on a common misconception.
Faith and commerce: The medieval relic trade in Cologne
During my last visit to the Schnütgen Museum, I noticed a series of elaborate reliquary busts. These intricately crafted artifacts were shaped like the upper bodies of figures meant to represent saints, kings, and queens. Each bust had an opening to enclose and hold the corresponding relic. Their skillful artistry was immediately striking. Intrigued by this encounter, I began to do some research, uncovering a fascinating yet ironic chapter in the history of Cologne.
Beyond the sacred: Exploring medieval art at the Schnütgen Museum
For me, a visit to the Schnütgen Museum is always both refreshing and enlightening. Situated in the heart of Cologne, the museum offers a unique blend of local and European religious art and cultural heritage, presented in a secular, yet respectful light. It enables visitors to appreciate the artworks as individual pieces of art, detached from their original religious context.
1700 years of Jewish history in Cologne
A perhaps not well perceived part of Cologne’s history is its rich Jewish heritage that dates back to the Roman era. The Cologne Jewish community is considered as one of the oldest North of the Alps and has a long and complex history, marked by periods of prosperity and persecution. The community has contributed significantly to the city’s cultural and economic development. Here is a short overview of that history.
Kölsch – Rethinking a local myth
In Cologne, one tradition distinctly captures the essence of the city more than any other: Kölsch. This clear, top-fermented beer is celebrated not just as a local specialty but as a vital part of the city’s heritage and a symbol of communal spirit. Its role in social gatherings and public life marks it as a cornerstone of Cologne’s cultural fabric. Yet, amidst its widespread acclaim, it’s crucial to remember that Kölsch is an alcoholic beverage. This fact prompts a necessary reevaluation of its place within Cologne’s culture and invites us to ponder the real foundations of a social community. It’s time to consider the implications of glorifying an alcoholic tradition and to explore what truly makes a community thrive.
The Richmodis legend – A Cologne tale
High above the Neumarkt in Cologne, two horse heads protrude from the side of a tower, sparking curiosity and wonder among both locals and visitors. These sculptures are not mere decorations but symbols of one of Cologne’s most intriguing legends—the tale of Richmodis. Here is a summary of some facts that I could gather about this local legend.