A characteristically Ottonian art form begins to coalesce distinct from the Carolingian tradition, particularly in painting, ivory carving, and sculpture, as animation increases significantly.

This more expressionistic style shows an evolving technical virtuosity that conveys spiritual intensity, emotionalism, and naturalism.

Ivory carving continues to be produced for liturgical purposes; as can be seen in scenes from the ivory plaques of the “Magdeburg Antependium” from around 970, carvings have a characteristic restraint and the narrative is conveyed through simple gestures and enlivened by an original kind of decoration such as that in the strongly patterned background.