The Vienna Genesis and the Evolution of Christian Book Illumination

Authors

Samantha Castro, Utah State University

Files

Description

In this essay, I argue that the Vienna Genesis influenced future Christian manuscripts by pushing the idea that higher status and holiness were linked. The Vienna Genesis' expensive creation and classically-influenced illustrations, which were seen by some as conspicuous, would be imitated by the Paris Psalter, only differentiating in the subject matter. The Melisende Psalter would take a turn in its style, mimicking Byzantine icons rather than classical works, but it continued the high-cost production and ruler-appealing narrative of King David. And unlike the other two, the Melisende Psalter cements the initial bias, with signs hinting at possible royal/imperial ownership.

Keywords

Byzantium, Byzantine Empire, luxury, Vienna Genesis, christianity, art

Disciplines

Ancient, Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque Art and Architecture | History of Art, Architecture, and Archaeology

Recommended Citation

Castro, Samantha, "The Vienna Genesis and the Evolution of Christian Book Illumination" (2021). BYZANTIUM: Trade, Treasure, Tradition. 37.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/arth3620_2021/37