The music of dance and the dance of music: the choreutic iconography in the Paradiso of the Dante Estense [Modena, Biblioteca Estense Universitaria, it. 474 = α.R.4.8]
Abstract
The illustrative cycle of the codex known as Dante Estense occupies a prominent position within the illuminated production in Dante's field by virtue of its peculiar characteristics: the unprecedented extension of the figurations extended to the end of the third Canticle; the particular pagination; and finally, the high and central presence of choreographic and musical iconography in the representation of the Paradiso. The iconographic solution of the Ferrarese codex depicts an almost uninterrupted flow of angels dancing and playing musical instruments, engaged in a surprisingly dynamic choreography. The figuration of Dante Estense, recognising movement and performativity as the founding characteristics of the Third Canticle, stages the most punctual visual interpretation of Dante's non-verbal poetic and theological journey to God.
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