Dr. Cristina Thieme: The panel from the cathedral of Trogir

In 1995, the fragment of a panel dating back to the 13th century was found in the choir stalls of the cathedral of Trogir. Parts of the painting are missing. Technological aspects of this work of art have been examined and the importance of the panel has been discussed against the background of its creation in the Dalmatian seaside town which was then under the influence of Byzantium and the West. Studies on the history of the city of Trogir, on its cathedral and on its local adoration of saints are the basis for these studies.
The panel is special because it has been spared from later treatment, thanks to the fact that it has been built into the choir stalls. Therefore it was possible to study the medieval painting technique in a unique way. Comparisons with artwork from the western sphere illustrate the isolated status of the panel. Its sumptuous and ingenious painting technique is bound to originate from the Byzantine East. Studies regarding the reconstruction and proportion of the original design, form and size of the panel have been made and they delivered important basic information both regarding the typological classification and function and the original installation site of the panel at the cathedral of Trogir.

Keywords: Panel Painting; Painting Technique; Byzanz; Dalmatien; Retabel

Dissertation, Technische Universität München, München 2007

ISBN: 978-3-89500-562-6