Jaume Cascalls facts for kids
Jaume Cascalls (born in the early 1300s – died in 1378) was an important Spanish sculptor. He was born in a town called Berga. Cascalls was a key artist in the Catalan school of Gothic sculpture. This means he followed a popular art style from the Middle Ages. He was married to the daughter of a famous painter named Ferrer Bassa. They worked together on many projects, which was very helpful for both of their careers.
Contents
Early Works and Big Projects
Cascalls' earliest known artwork is a beautiful white marble altarpiece. You can find it in the Church of St. Mary in Corneilla-de-Conflent. This area is now in southern France. He finished and signed this piece in 1345.
The Royal Tombs at Poblet
His biggest project was a series of tombs for kings and queens. These were located in the Monastery of Poblet. He started working there in 1349. Another master sculptor, Aloi de Montbrai, joined him. This project took many years to finish. King Peter I of Aragon kept asking for changes, which made the work last even longer.
New Challenges and Famous Sculptures
In 1360, Cascalls left Poblet. He was chosen to lead the building of the La Seu Vella cathedral in Lleida. This was a very important job. He also created several colorful marble statues for the Ripoll Monastery.
Girona Cathedral's "St. Charlemagne"
Cascalls also made sculptures for the Cathedral of Girona. One of his most famous pieces there is called "St. Charlemagne." It is a colorful marble statue. However, it actually shows King Peter I of Aragon, not Charlemagne!
Later Years and Legacy
In the 1370s, Cascalls moved to the Cathedral of Tarragona. But he had to go back to Poblet just three years later. The King threatened to take away all his property if he didn't return.
Cascalls likely passed away in 1378. After his death, his student, Jordi de Déu, took over the work on the royal tombs at Poblet. Cascalls left behind many impressive sculptures that show his skill and the beauty of Gothic art.
See also
In Spanish: Jaume Cascalls para niños
