Lecture Notes: Il Gesu and Jesuit Church Architecture

Introduction

• Il Gesu: Mother church of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits).
• Ignatius of Loyola: Founder of the Jesuit order, aimed at preaching and converting people to Catholicism, especially in Asia and Latin America.
• Jesuits: Key allies of the Pope in response to the Protestant Reformation.

Historical Context

• Protestant Reformation: Challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and the Pope.
• Counter-Reformation: Catholic Church's response to reaffirm its supremacy.
• Council of Trent: Defined Catholic response, emphasizing clarity and directness in art and architecture.

Architecture of Il Gesu

• Church Triumphant: Design reflects the triumph of Catholicism over Protestantism.
• Focus on Altar: Emphasis on the altar and the performance of the Eucharist.
• Transubstantiation: Central Catholic belief in the transformation of bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ.
• Mass and Preaching: Increased focus on engaging the laity through more masses and sermons.

Architectural Features

• Traditional Basilica: Return to the basilica form, accommodating large congregations.
• Side Chapels: Replacing side aisles to focus attention on the altar.
• Shortened Transepts: Creating a rectangular function of the church space.
• High Renaissance Influence: Derives authority from Renaissance architecture, especially the work of Alberti.
  • Barrel Vault: Similar to Saint Andrea in Mantua.
  • Facade: References to Alberti’s Santa Maria Novella in Florence.

Classical Elements

• Nave Walls: Fluted pilasters with Corinthian capitals.
• Barrel Vault and Dome: Inspired by ancient Roman architecture, e.g., the Pantheon.

Baroque Ceiling by Gaulli

• Ceiling Painting: Created 100 years after the architecture by Baroque painter Gaulli.
• IHS Monogram: Symbolizes the name of Jesus, central to the Jesuit order.
• Illusionistic Techniques:
  • Elect Figures: Painted in foreshortening, creating a convincing illusion of floating.
  • Breaking Frames: Use of wooden panels and shadows enhances three-dimensional effect.
  • Damned Figures: Contrast with the Elect, depicted as cast into hell.

Impact and Experience

• Sense of the Miraculous: Architecture and art create a visceral experience.
• Boundary Dissolution: Blurring of lines between earthly and heavenly realms through art.

(gentle music)