Romanesque Art reflects beliefs

You have to relate the time period to understand Romanesque art. With the coming and going of the "Apocalypse," in 1000 AD, this style of art and architecture lasted until the 13th century. The architectural style is influenced by both Byzantium and Eastern origins. The figure of Christ the Majesty in iconographic form, the last judgement, and the life of Christ depicted are the most noticeable elements of the Byzantine period. The structures of the time use the basic forms from the Roman periods, hence "Romanesque," even though the term was given to this period by art historians in the 19th century. It was the first style to impact the Catholic church. There was stained glass and illuminated manuscripts that are very striking in color. Crucifixes and depictions of the Fall of Man, Creation, many nativity scenes, Death and Resurrection were abundant. If it was not carved out of wood, then metal, or ivory. The purpose of the Biblical sculptural scenes was used as propaganda to convey a message that the Christian believer should recognize their sins, repent, and be redeemed. The scenes of the Last Judgement portray that message, as with also the Crucifix, which reminds the Christian of redemption, which are displayed through out the churches and cathedrals.