Gospel Lectionary

Unknown

late 10th century

Tempera colors, gold paint, silver paint, and ink, Tempera Colors, Gold paint, Ink

J. Paul Getty Museum

An illuminated manuscript page features an ornate initial 'N' within an arched architectural frame. The initial is decorated with interlace patterns and zoomorphic figures, rendered in tempera, gold, and silver paint. Used by the deacon during the celebration of the Mass, a Gospel lectionary contains readings from the Gospels arranged in the order in which they are read during the liturgical year. Large painted initials introducing the readings for the major celebrations of the Christian calendar and 180 smaller decorated initials marking the beginning of the remaining readings adorn this Ottonian lectionary. Executed in gold and silver, outlined in red ink, and composed of stylized, intertwining vines, these initials are exquisite examples of a type that was a hallmark of Ottonian illumination. The use of gold and silver emphasizes the letters a