Charlemagne's Influence on Medieval Manuscripts

Charlemagne's Goal for Education

• Objective: Charlemagne wanted to ensure education throughout his realm (Holy Roman Empire).
• Support: Sponsored book making, especially religious texts.
• Variety in Styles: Manuscripts produced during Charlemagne's reign had diverse visual styles.

Illuminated Manuscripts

• Diversity: Different looks depending on geographical location (e.g., urban vs. rural areas).
• Example: Coronation Gospel found in Charlemagne's tomb, circa year 1000.

Coronation Gospel

• Significance: Believed to be highly valued by Charlemagne.
• Material: Made of purple-dyed vellum, symbolizing royalty.
• Technique: Silver point engraving for luxury finish.
• Realism: Illustrations move towards a 3D style.

Analysis of St. Matthew Illustration

• Visuals: Realistic rendering of face and body.
• Halo: Disk behind head resembling a rising/setting sun.
• Shadows: Use of unseen light source, strong cast shadow.
• Details: Realistic drapery with highlights and shadows, recognizable figure.
• Composition: High horizon line, transparent robes, absence of architectural elements.

Comparison to Book of Kells and Other Manuscripts

• Diversity in Style: Different approaches to depicting the same subject (St. Matthew).
• Coronation Gospel Style: Bold, illusionistic, and realistic.

Carolingian Art Style

• Type: Known as Palace Style, developed in Aachen.
• Characteristics: Focus on realism, sophisticated urban influence.

Illustrated Manuscript Techniques

• Materials: Vellum dyed purple (royal association).
• Composition Elements:
  • High horizon line
  • Stylus and inkwell
  • Sophisticated seating (scissor-legged chair)
  • Transparency in robes

Comparison: Urban Center vs. Rural (Reims)

• Urban Influence: More realistic, metropolitan style (e.g., Coronation Gospel in Aachen).
• Rural Influence: Agitated line style, less realistic (e.g., Ebbo Gospels in Reims).

Analysis of Ebbo Gospels

• Commissioned by: Court librarian, created in a monastery.
• Visuals: Animated line style, sense of motion, exaggerated features.
• Details: Angel pouring ink symbolizing divine inspiration.

Painterly Style

• Definition: Visible brushstrokes, evidence of the artist's hand.
• Comparison: Coronation Gospel vs. Ebbo Gospels, latter more painterly.

St. John Illustration (Mo Gospel)

• Identifier: Eagle symbol.
• Details: Painterly style, gaze towards eagle.