The Fantasy of the Middle Ages

Saint George and the Dragon (detail, set against contemporary background), from Book of Hours, about 1450–1455, Master of Guillebert de Mets. Tempera colors, gold leaf, and ink, on parchment. Getty Museum, Ms. 2 (84.ML.67), fol. 18v

The castles, knights, battles, and imaginary creatures of the Middle Ages perpetually inspire art, literature, photography, film, and reenactment. These later fantasy works blend historical source material with legendary or magical elements to create memorable characters, creatures, and cultures. The Fantasy of the Middle Ages explores the ways in which the Middle Ages have been mythologized, dramatized, and re-envisioned time and again, proving an irresistible period for creative reinterpretations ranging from the Brothers Grimm to Game of Thrones. It includes a number of pages from fabulous illuminated manuscripts and fabulous 19th century works such as Fairies in a Bird’s Nest by John Anster Fitzgerald.

John Anster Fitzgerald, Fairies in a Bird’s Nest, ca. 1860. Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, Museum purchase, Grover A. Magnin Bequest Fund and Volunteer Council Art Acquisition Fund