Art in Medieval Tartu

Abstract

Of the three medieval Livonian cities, Tartu is in the most challengingposition when it comes to both written and visual sources. Repeatedlyconquered and plundered during the wars of the 16th–20th centuries,Tartu lost its medieval archives and buildings. To date, research onmedieval Tartu’s art has largely concentrated on the architecture ofits cathedral and the parish church of St. John.This article aims to explore potential avenues for studying medievalart in Tartu by utilizing written sources, historical drawings, andsurviving works of art. Many of the stone carvings discussed arepublished here for the first time. However, the article does not intendto present a comprehensive overview of all preserved medievalart from Tartu – a task made impossible by the sheer number offragmented grave slabs alone.The first section of the article examines written records relatedto the commissioning and donation of artworks. It then reviews thepreserved carved stones and fragments from churches, including apiscina, a sacrament niche, and several grave slabs. Carved stonesfrom burgher residences are even fewer, comprising an inscribedcapital, three doorside stones (Beischlagsteine), and a lintel. Analysisof the limestone materials shows that most of the carved stonesfrom Tartu’s churches and dwellings were made from Lasnamäelimestone. However, it remains unclear whether only rough blockswere transported to Tartu or whether the artistic designs themselveswere commissioned from Tallinn masters. Finally, the article discussestwo notable artworks – a silver-gilt chalice and a bronze church bell– both of which were likely taken to Russia following the conquestof Tartu in 1558 during the Livonian War.The findings highlight that, while medieval sources for studyingTartu’s art are limited, they are more abundant than previouslyassumed. Continued investigation of written records and historicaldrawings holds great promise. In addition, many fragmented graveslabs require documentation and cataloging in museum collections,and further research into their materials is essential