The allure of the past is strong, with medieval times holding a special fascination for many. It's a period characterized by knights, chivalry, and a certain mystique. Although sometimes seen as a conservative or prudish era, you may be surprised to learn that erotic art thrived during the medieval ages as well. Let's delve into the intriguing world of medieval erotic art and discover how our ancestors engaged with their own sexuality.
Midieval Erotic Art Table of Contents
A Brief History of Medieval Erotic Art
During the medieval age, lasting from the 5th to the 15th centuries, erotic art was a popular and widespread form of expression. It defied the conventional wisdom of the period and proved that even without the explicit sexual revolution of the 20th century, people still sought outlets to express their desires and fantasies. Let's take a look at some key aspects of this fascinating time in the history of erotic art:
Clergy and Sexuality
While the Church might be considered a bastion of conservatism and piety, some members of the clergy created or collected erotic works during this time. Many illuminated manuscripts featured lascivious images within their margins, and these works likely served as a means of indulging carnal desires or as tools for educating young clergy members about the sin of lust.
Carvings and Architecture
Another significant medium for medieval erotic art was found in architecture. Stone carvings known as 'sheela-na-gigs' were a common sight, often prominently displayed on churches and religious buildings. These carvings, typically depicting women with exaggerated genitals, were believed to ward off evil or serve as fertility symbols.
The Luttrell Psalter
One of the finest examples of medieval erotic art is the Luttrell Psalter, an illuminated manuscript produced in early 14th century England. In its pages, vivid illustrations of tantalizing scenes and sexual innuendo can be found, revealing the imagination and creativity of the artists. With these erotic tales hidden within a religious text, it's clear that taboo and secrecy played a large part in the appeal of such work.
The Influence of the East
With increased trade and travel during this time, medieval European artists were exposed to new styles and ideas from Eastern cultures. This led to an influx of exotic and erotic imagery, such as the Kama Sutra and various Persian and Arabic tales, which further fueled the creation and consumption of erotic art.
Midieval Erotic Art Example:
The "Erotic Couple" sculpture by the 12th century artist Gislebertus is a prime example of medieval erotic art. This captivating creation, found in the famous French cathedral of Autun, depicts a loving couple embracing each other in a passionate pose. The sculpture is a beautiful testament to the artistic skill and sensuality of the time, portraying a raw and real expression of human desire in a conservative age.
As we've seen, the world of medieval erotic art is rich with insight, both into the fascinating time period and the lives of the people who lived through it. The art challenges our notions of what life was like during this time and speaks to the timeless nature of human sexuality. Whether you're a fan of history, art, or both, it's hard to deny the allure that medieval erotic art holds.
We invite you to explore more about the captivating world of erotic art and learn even more about its diverse history and interesting subjects by diving into our vast collection of erotic works and guides on Filthy Adult. And if you're feeling inspired to delve even deeper into this fascinating realm, browse our fetish shop, where you can indulge in a variety of sinful and seductive pleasures. Don't forget to share this article with the other erotica enthusiasts in your life, and be sure to explore everything that Filthy Adult has to offer.
