Transfiguration/transubstantiation

Abstract

Arthur Danto's theory of art assumes a theological way of thinking about indiscernible realities that has been the subject of theological dispute for almost two millennia. Transfiguration–metamorphosis–necessarily involves a change in appearance or in aesthetic properties. Transubstantiation means an ontological change that excludes a priori any perceptible difference. Danto often insists on this very particular aspect when he explains the relationship between artworks and commonplace objects. It seems that Danto's theory is better understood by reference to transubstantiation than to transfiguration. But his philosophy of art history may justify his use of ‘transfiguration.’