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Medieval Manuscripts: Codex Egberti

Egbert, archbishop of Trier in the last years of the 10th century, was one of the most active art patrons of his time. Among the finest works he commissioned is the Codex Egberti, a stunning Ottonian Gospel book with an early hint of Romanesque.

The second half of the 10th century was one of the most fruitful periods in the history of art. Outstandingly creative artist-monks filled abbeys with the glowing spiritual power of illuminated manuscripts, merging many styles and traditions.

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In the Codex Egberti, the monks Kerald and Heribert are shown presenting the volume to the powerful commissioner Egbert. The archbishop’s square halo is a sign that the codex’s Master had been influenced not only by mosaics he studied in Trier, but also by journeys to Italy, where donor portraits often included square halos.

The magnificent codex, with its delicately applied gold and red lead on pastel-colored grounds, was used as a diplomatic gift and brought as far as Russia and Hungary. Today it is housed in the city library in Trier, the town of its patron.

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Our thanks to Facsimile Finder for helping us create this post. You can learn more about this manuscript and see more images by visiting their website.

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