Lindau Gospels

Date: ca. 880-890

Page 452

The Lindau Gospels, named after Abbey of Lindau in Germany, is a renowned masterpiece from the Morgan Library & Museum collection. Its precious jeweled covers, created in distinct regions and time periods, stand out as exceptional medieval treasure bindings. The back cover, dating back to the late eighth century, was likely crafted around Salzburg (Austria), while the front cover, dating around 870–880, likely originated in eastern France. The manuscript itself, from around 880–890, was written and illuminated in Switzerland's St. Gall monastery. Byzantine and Middle Eastern silks were later added to the inside covers.

Containing the four Gospels and supplementary material, the manuscript includes prologues by Jerome, Gospel prefaces, chapter listings, and unique illuminated canon tables. The manuscript's decorative pages, inspired by textile designs, frame the canon tables and are unparalleled in manuscripts of the time. Though lacking evangelist portraits, the Lindau Gospels features lavish double-page spreads at the Gospel beginnings. About seven scribes contributed to the text, with the illuminated pages possibly the work of Folchart, a prominent artist from St. Gall.

This facsimile measures 11.25 inches tall by 8.75 inches wide. Our hardcover books are made with 2oz genuine cowhide upholstery leather from a small farm located in the United States. The pages are printed on 67lb cover acid free paper (business card thickness). We use a 4 color digital offset press. Each book is handsewn by our trained bookbinders using a library binding method. This method will ensure a strong, sturdy, and lasting book for generations to come.

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Patrick Broughton