The Book of Kells

The Book of Kells, dating from about 800, is a brilliantly decorated manuscript of the four Gospels. This new official guide, by the former Keeper of Manuscripts at Trinity College Library, Dublin, provides fascinating insights into the Book of Kells, revealing the astounding detail and richness of one of the greatest works of medieval art. The illustrations in the guide include reproductions of complete pages, and details that allow one to marvel at the intricacy of the decoration. The Book of Kells is explored through its historical background, its structure, its decorative elements, including the richness of its symbols and themes, the scribes and artists who worked on the manuscript, and the tools and pigments used in its creation.Table of ContentsHistorical Background • Early History of The Book of Kells • Later History of The Book of Kells • Navigation of The Book of Kells • Structure of The Book of Kells • Canon Tables • Virgin and Child • Hebrew Names • Breves Causae and Argumenta • Matthew’s Gospel • Mark’s Gospel • Luke’s Gospel • John’s Gospel • Decoration of The Book of Kells • Antecedents and Influences • Symbols and Themes • Scribes and Artists • Script, Pricking and Ruling, Correcting • The Scribes • The Artists • Materials and Pigments