A researcher from the University of the Basque Country is leading an international network to trace the journey of hundreds of skulls that arrived in Spain from Germany during the 16th and 17th centuries, revealing an artistic world created by women.
Aintzane Erkizia, an art historian at the University of the Basque Country, has embarked on an intriguing project centered on a collection of decorated skulls located in a small church in Martioda, a village in Álava. Her research aims to uncover the origins and cultural significance of these relics, which date back to the turbulent period of the Flanders Wars. Despite the limited available data and literature on the subject, Erkizia's findings suggest a deep artistic tradition tied to women's contributions, which has largely been overlooked in historical narratives.
By tracing the route of these skulls, which were brought to Spain from Germany in the 16th and 17th centuries, Erkizia hopes to shed light on a broader European phenomenon of relic trafficking that occurred during and after the Flanders wars. Each skull represents not just a physical object but a connection to distinct historical and cultural identities shaped by women's artistry and creativity. Erkizia's efforts to document and analyze these relics could challenge traditional perceptions of gender roles in art history and open new avenues for understanding the cultural exchanges across Europe during that era.
The small village of Martioda, known for its modest population of 35, serves as an unexpected focal point for this significant historical inquiry. The study not only enriches the local cultural heritage but also situates Álava within the larger context of European art history, emphasizing the global impact of these relics. Erkizia's work symbolizes a growing interest in rediscovering and acknowledging women's artistic contributions, which have frequently been marginalized in historical discourse, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in modern scholarship.
