Summary: Book of Kells
Key dates:
The most magnificent example of Irish illuminated manuscripts is undoubtedly the Book of Kells. This was produced in the second half of the 8th century. Three hundred and thirty nine pages have survived. It is totally original in design, with a full range of colours. Its script is beautifully clear and rounded. One of its most striking aspects is the wonderful decoration with which most initial letters are drawn. Some illustrations occupy entire pages while others are very small and obscure and may even have been doodles of some 8th century monks!
|
