The Past Is Evolutionary, the Future Is Byzantine: Kurt Weitzmann’s Contribution to the Research on Pictorial Narration

In the Illustrations in Roll and Codex (1947), Kurt Weitzmann developed a methodological apparatus for studying Byzantine medieval narrative book illumination. His approach had two important features: an evolutionary typology that paid attention to strategies painter chose presenting story comparative analysis observed stories illustrations relation their textual source. The focus of this paper is personal institutional background method, its context, dissemination, legacy. advanced study pictorial storytelling through his pedagogical work introduced it into academic curriculum. Alongside stylistic iconography, soon became essential tool art history constituted link between East Latin West. This also key influence on style autobiographical writings. propagated visual narratives extremely productive oeuvre effective influence. dissemination Weitzmann’s ideas, three institutions played role: Princeton University, Dumbarton Oaks, University Chicago. circle made studies leading field research over period from around 1940 1980.