Religious art has long been at the very center of the art world. From the Middle Ages and through the Renaissance many artists poured their energies into the emerging role of Christianity which swept through Europe to become the dominant force in culture , society and philosophical thinking.

From this came some of the most exceptional art ever produced. The Italian Renaissance alone produced some of the most distinct and well-known art in history. It is no surprise that with the advent of modern reproduction techniques that religious art, for so long the preserve of the wealthy, has made its way into our homes.

In particular with the rise of modern textile manufacturing methods that tapestry wall hangings are beginning to see a huge focus on some of Christianity's most famous works.

Religious Art
During the Medieval era, with its preoccupation of death and eternal life, we see the emergence of distinct works of art glorifying God. Followed by the Renaissance religious art soon took on a life of its own. Christian Europe poured almost all it artistic energy into the production of art that glorified the power of God, and helped create some of the greatest of all masterpieces.

Because of the vivid imagery and the almost exclusively religious nature of art at this time much of it has survived into the modern era. In addition because it is so distinctive many art lovers are drawn to religious art as an option for their home decor needs. From early Medieval religious art influenced by Byzantine craftsmen, to more modern-looking Renaissance and post-Renaissance art, many have come to appreciate the impact religious art can have in even the most modern of homes.

Renaissance Art Tapestries
A great many famous works of religious art have been reproduced as wall tapestries. Some of the best examples from history are now available, and are a real treasure trove of information as well as a unique piece of wall art.

One of the most popular religious tapestries is Michelangelo's Creation of Adam from the ceiling of the Sistine chapel. As one of the most sublime works of any age it is instantly recognizable and as impressive now as ever.

Michelangelo's legendary attention to detail and supreme ability with color is encompassed in this one small detail from what possibly ranks as the most famous piece of art ever created. Even 500 years after it was completed it is a staggering testament to the inspiration religious devotion created for artists through the ages.

Giving its distinct imagery it works well as a woven textile adding much to the original and can look dramatic and expressive, adding an unusual touch to any decorating scheme. With it's beautifully rendered lines and subtle use of color it can enliven almost any environment, and is a striking way for history lovers to at a touch of class to any environment.

Post-Renaissance Wall Tapestries
Although the Renaissance is the most common example of religious art, the trend continued after its demise. A particularly striking example is El Greco's famous Trinity.

A reproduction of the original mannerist painting it was originally painted in 1577 for the altarpiece of Santo Domingo el Antiguo church in Toledo, Spain. It achieved great fame in its day, and clearly shows the artists' influences, in particular the impact of Italian Renaissance art on his work.

Reminiscent of Michelangelo's Pieta it depicts Christ after the crucifixion, supported by the Holy Father and attended to by the Holy Spirit and numerous angels. Its vivid colors and impressive palette demonstrate the artists' evident skill in composition, and the intensity of his vision. The original can be found in the Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain.

The Trinity wall tapestry, being based on such a famously vibrant and striking work of religious art, transfers well to woven fabric. The dynamism seen in the original blends well with the weave, especially so with very high quality reproductions. Added to the unique qualities that are a feature of luxury wall tapestries the end result is a magnificent testament to El Greco's original art, as well as a truly striking piece of wall decor.

As with all quality wall tapestries it's subtlety and vitality transfer well to textiles, adding an almost antique quality to and already distinctive work of art.

Religious Tapestries as Wall Decor
Because wall tapestries are textile based the weave often helps lift the original work making for an expressive piece of wall decor. The best quality tapestries do an impressive job of not only reproducing the original detail, but add considerably to their charm and people can be quite taken aback at their distinctive nature.

Nowadays many people are looking to religious tapestries to add some charm and history to their home decor. With a vast array of options to choose from, including Medieval and Renaissance art, there's never been a better time to appreciate these distinctive works.

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