Lecture Notes

Illuminated Manuscripts: An Overview

Importance and Perception

• People are often surprised by the significance of illuminated manuscripts.
• Finest artists of the Middle Ages and Renaissance worked on these manuscripts.
• Not considered minor or decorative, but primary art forms.

Early Usage

• Initially used for liturgical purposes during divine services.
• Handwritten and hand-painted with gold, silver, lapis, and other precious materials to glorify the Word of God.

Notable Manuscripts in the Getty Collection

Stammheim Missal

• Considered the finest German illuminated manuscript of the 12th century.
• Key Features:
  • Depicts Christ at His second coming.
  • Arrangement in a simple design with a mandorla in the center.
  • Strong symmetry and elaborate geometric structure.
  • Symbols of the evangelists in half-circles.
  • Clarity in moral and spiritual messaging.

Prayer Book of Albrecht of Brandenburg

• Each prayer illustrated with a magnificent miniature.
• Key Features:
  • Narrates the story of Christ from the Annunciation.
  • Miniatures are nocturnal scenes lit by candlelight and torches.
  • Dramatic effect with Christ shown as a sensitive and fragile individual.

The Fates of Illustrious Men and Women by Giovanni Boccaccio

• A great secular manuscript.
• Key Features:
  • Paints how people rise to fame and suffer unfortunate fates.
  • Miniature depicts the story of Adam and Eve by The Boucicaut Master.
  • The Boucicaut Master: Greatest French illuminator of the first half of the 15th century, renowned for storytelling.
  • Left: Boccaccio writing, Right: Stooped Adam and Eve narrating their story.
  • Scenes illuminated and read aloud at night.

Cultural Significance

• Over time, these books became prized works of art.
• Displayed on special occasions to showcase the status, taste, and judgment of their patrons.