Book of Nunnaminster

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

This page from the Book of Nunnaminster contains a zoomorphic initial 'd'.
Enlarge
This page from the Book of Nunnaminster contains a zoomorphic initial 'd'.

The Book of Nunnaminster (London, British Library, Harley Ms 2965) is a 9th century Anglo-Saxon prayerbook. It was written in the kingdom of Mercia, using an "insular" hand (as used in the British Isles), related to Carolingian minuscule. It was probably later owned by Ealhswith, wife of Alfred the Great. It is related to, but of an earlier date than, the Book of Cerne. Like Cerne it contains the Passion narratives of the four Gospels and a collection of non-liturgical prayers, many of which relate to the Passion. The Book of Nunnaminster shares some poems with the Book of Cerne. The Book of Nunnaminster includes some Decorated initials.

[edit] External link