Rendezvous with the Lion at the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum: Experience the Middle Ages in Braunschweig
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A rare glimpse into Braunschweig's medieval treasure art
With Rendezvous with the Lion. Highlights from Castle Dankwarderode in attendance, the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum presents a newly conceived exhibition of its most significant medieval objects. The display brings together 45 masterpieces from Castle Dankwarderode and places the Braunschweig Burglion, precious reliquaries, goldsmith works, ivory objects, and textile imagery in an art-historically precise context.
Power, Piety, and Court Culture in the Middle Ages
The tour begins with the history of Castle Dankwarderode and the status of Braunschweig in the Middle Ages. From there, an exhibition unfolds that intertwines political representation, religious imaginations, and courtly culture. The curation organizes the exhibits not as mere treasures, but as testimonies of an era where art, power, and faith were closely intertwined.
The Braunschweig Burglion as a Central Symbol
At the center is the original of the Braunschweig Burglion from around 1166, the most significant surviving freestanding bronze work of the Middle Ages north of the Alps. Its presence shapes the exhibition atmosphere with monumental calm and historical dignity. Those standing before this work experience not only sculpture but an identity-forming image of power from the time of Henry the Lion.
Masterpieces of International Standing
Highlights include the Gandersheim rune box from around 780 to 800, the reliquary arm of Saint Blasius, the magnificent imperial mantle of Otto IV, an ivory olifant, and a rock crystal cross from around 1300. These works provide a concentrated view of European treasure art, liturgical practice, and the symbolic language of medieval power.
An Exhibition Tour with Depth of Focus
The exhibition leads through themes such as Henry the Lion and his court, piety and politics, the Welf treasure, table manners and dining rounds, as well as textile imagery in eight chapters. Additionally, introductions to the material and spiritual contexts of the objects are provided. A booklet in simple language is available for free loan, facilitating access for a broad audience.
Visit, Tour, and Cultural Education
The accompanying program combines art experience and cultural education. Planned are lectures, expert-led tours, an action evening, and a family day. The last Sunday of each month from 2 PM is free, making the visit particularly attractive for families, school classes, and art-interested beginners. The exhibition is suitable for an intensive appreciation of the works as well as for an inspiring museum visit with historical depth.
Conclusion: This exhibition makes Braunschweig's Middle Ages experientially tangible in extraordinary density. Those wishing to experience the connection of power, faith, and art in the original should definitely visit the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum and engage in an impressive art experience.
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