MA in History of Arts - Medieval and Byzantine in Philadelphia United States | University of Pennsylvania

At the University of Pennsylvania, the study of the Middle Ages spans broad geographical and cultural contexts. The History of Art Department provides students with options for either synchronic concentration—examining a single era across diverse cultures—or diachronic exploration—tracking one culture's evolution over decades or centuries. Faculty members mentor students to refine their analytical and observational abilities, preparing them for specialized study in their chosen focus areas. These may include detailed object examination, architectural techniques, archaeological fieldwork, artistic theories from medieval to modern times, or historical writing. Sarah M. Gurin specializes in Medieval Europe, with particular expertise in Gothic art throughout Western Europe. Her research emphasizes artistic materials and their dual role in physically forming and conceptually influencing artworks. Focusing on medieval ivory carving, Professor Gurin highlights cross-cultural exchanges—both through aristocratic patrons imitating Mediterranean counterparts and through the global trade of elephant tusks in the medieval economic network.