Medieval artists often elaborately decorated the incipit, or opening words, of a text. This page opens the Gospel of Saint Matthew. A large letter L constructed of interlaced and spiraling vines of gold leaf appears within the frame composed of intricate design. This background imitates the appearance of expensive silks from Byzantium that Western Europeans admired and coveted in the Middle Ages.
Decorated Incipit from the Gospel of Saint Matthew, c.1130, Tempera colors, gold, and silver on parchmentUnknown, German Illuminator (1120 - 1140) |
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Medieval artists often elaborately decorated the incipit, or opening words, of a text. This page opens the Gospel of Saint Matthew. A large letter L constructed of interlaced and spiraling vines of gold leaf appears within the frame composed of intricate design. This background imitates the appearance of expensive silks from Byzantium that Western Europeans admired and coveted in the Middle Ages. |
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