Institut for Kultur og Samfund

This paper examines the presence of European ‘contacts’ during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period, i.e. elements of culture derived from Central Europe that were introduced into historical Denmark, on the basis of three examples. First, Baltic Ware, a specific pottery type, was developed from Western Slavic antetypes. The rapid spread of Baltic Ware over the Eastern part of Denmark does not reflect a Slavic settlement but the adoption of a high quality product for cooking. Second, the art of glass making was nearly unknown before the Renaissance. To help meet the growing demand for window panes and glass vessels, German and Venetian gaffers were invited to Denmark. The production they started was ephemeral, however, ceasing after only one generation. Third, the tile stove and the concept of "appartement" consisting of a smoke-free heated living room and separate sleeping chambers were imported to Denmark as elements of European medieval court culture. Through a trickling down process they became a common part of daily life in the Renaissance.