Four Gospels
Illuminated manuscript in Latin on vellum
Northern France, Lannoy Abbey (?), c. 1175-1200
340 x 230 mm
69 leaves. Four historiated initials, countless marginal grotesques. Complete. Early 16th century German binding, leather over wooden boards, with two motifs. Extraordinary fine condition.
This manuscripts' unfinished initials provide a fascinating view of both the preliminary ink drawings and the completed illuminations on burnished gold. Its origins are as complex as they are intriguing: written by an English hand, yet illuminated in a Northern French style.
This manuscript was made c. 1180-1200 in North Eastern France, possibly for Lannoy Abbey (Oise). It holds the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, which present compelling narratives of the life of Jesus Christ, laying the foundation for the religion established by his followers. As the embodiment of God’s Word, the Gospels were regarded as the most significant texts of the medieval period.
Despite the vast chronological and geographical scope of the Gospels, the core aspects of their illumination remained remarkably consistent. Typically, each Gospel featured a portrait of its respective Evangelist alongside decorated canon tables. In this manuscript, four large and striking historiated initials mark the beginning of each Gospel.
The initial for St Matthew presents a vivid scene depicting Christ with Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Matthew, while Adam and Eve appear in the extension of the letter. The other initials focus on the more traditional portraits of the Evangelists, set against gleaming gold backgrounds and painted in body colours.
The manuscript offers a rare glimpse into the medieval book-making process, with several illuminations left unfinished. These incomplete sections reveal a manuscript in the making, showing how the intricate stages of creation unfolded.
The unfinished illuminations allow us to observe the progression from initial sketches to the anticipated addition of vibrant colours. Instead of diminishing the manuscript’s value, these areas highlight the careful planning that went into its production, revealing the artistry and craft behind medieval books.
