Copenhagen Psalter

Illumination depicting the Nativity of Jesus from the Copenhagen Psalter

The Copenhagen Psalter (National Library of Denmark, MS. Thott 143 2º) is a 12th-century illuminated manuscript psalter, made in England. It has 199 leaves, is made of parchment and measures 28.6 centimetres (11.3 in) x 19.8 centimetres (7.8 in).[1] It begins with a calendar and a set of full-page miniatures illustrating the life of Christ, and 166 illuminated initials.[1][2]

The manuscript was made probably in northern England, perhaps Lincoln. Because the list of saints in the manuscript does not include Thomas Beckett, who was canonized in 1173, it is likely that the manuscript was executed before this year. Several artists seem to have been involved in the making of the manuscript, one of whom has been identified as the so-called Simon Master, who also worked for Abbot Simon of St Albans.[2]

It has recently been argued that the book was made for King Canute VI of Denmark, and commissioned by Bishop Eskil of Lund.

References

  1. 1 2 "Thott 143 2º: The Copenhagen Psalter". Center for Manuscripts & Rare Books. National Library of Denmark.
  2. 1 2 Hourihane (ed.), Colum (2012). The Grove Encyclopedia of Medieval Art and Architecture, Volume 2. Oxford University Press. p. 193. ISBN 0195395360.

External links

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