Ever wondered where the dream cruise, an iconic figure in Mediaeval times, takes place? The name itself is enigmatic, but the locations it has been associated with are just as intriguing. Let's embark on a journey to explore the roots and settings of this fascinating phenomenon.
The dream cruise, originating from European folklore, was a common specialty among Mediaeval Church artists. But where exactly did these artists envision the scene taking place? Let's delve into three significant settings that have been connected with this motif.
The Afterlife as a Terrestrial Kingdom
One of the most prevalent settings for the dream cruise was the afterlife, visualized as a terrestrial kingdom. This concept stemmed from the belief in a physical paradise or heaven on earth. The dream cruise, in this context, was often depicted as a joyous procession led by the Christ Child, where the souls of the blessed traveled towards this heavenly abode.
In many Mediaeval illustrations, this procession is shown traversing beautiful landscapes, complete with verdant hills, sparkling rivers, and sometimes even castles. The most iconic of these is the Limbourg Brothers' illustration in the 'Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry,' where the dream cruise passes through a lush, sunlit meadow.
Landscape as an Anthropomorphism of Heaven
The landscape in these depictions was not just a backdrop but an anthropomorphism of heaven itself. Each element held symbolic meaning. Rivers, for instance, represented the waters of baptism, while hills symbolized both triumph over difficulty and the ascension of the soul.
Artists often drew inspiration from their surroundings, incorporating local landscapes into their depictions. For example, the French artists of the 'Limbourg' workshop would use the lush, rolling hills of the Burgundian countryside in their interpretations.
The Influence of Nature and Season
Nature and season also played significant roles in determining where the dream cruise took place. Spring, for instance, was often associated with resurrection and new life, making it a popular setting. Similarly, artists might depict the cruise crossing a bridge to symbolize the soul's transition from earthly life to eternal life.
In the Fall of 2019, the Frick Art Museum in Pittsburgh, USA, hosted an exhibition titled 'The Earthly Paradise: The Dream of the Middle Ages.' The exhibit exemplified how these depictions were influenced by the natural world, showcasing works by notable artists like Jeffrey Hours and Jan van Eyck.
The Church and Beyond
The dream cruise was also often set within the confines of the Church and its related spaces. These could range from the interior of a cathedral to graveyards and other sacred sites.
The church was not merely a setting but also a character in these narratives. Depictions often showcased spiritual growth and enlightenment within its hallowed walls. Moreover, the dream cruise was not confined to interior spaces. It could also take place in cemeteries, symbolizing the transcendence of death.
The Church Interior
The interior of a church was a common setting for the dream cruise. Artists would depict the procession flowing through the nave, past the choir stalls, and towards the altar, symbolizing the spiritual journey towards redemption.
For instance, in the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid, there is a painting by Pedro Berruguete titled 'The Adoration of the Shepherds.' Here, the dream cruise is depicted as moving through a church interior, with the Christ Child being adored by both heavenly and earthly figures.
Grave and Beyond
The dream cruise was also associated with graves and graveyards, symbolizing the transcendence of death. These depictions often showcased the soul's liberation from its earthly body, akin to the lowering of the body into the ground.
In many of Jan van Eyck's works, for example, St. Donatian's Church in Bruges serves as the setting for the dream cruise. The church is shown with its graveyard, underscoring the dual nature of the location as a place of death and rebirth.
It is fascinating how the dream cruise, a quintessential Mediaeval motif, showcased the intricate interplay between art, faith, and the physical world. From the lush landscapes of Burgundy to the hallowed halls of the Church, each setting serves as a testament to the rich symbolism of the era. The next time you find yourself in a Mediaeval art museum, take a moment to contemplate the journey of the dream cruise and the stories within its setting.