Apocalypse of Lorraine

Apocalypse of Lorraine

Originating in Lorraine during the first half of the 14th century, Li apocalypse que S. Jehans vit is one of the finest manuscripts in the collections of the Sächsische Landesbibliothek in Dresden. Written in the medieval Lothringian dialect and commissioned by a wealthy and sophisticated patron in Metz, the manuscript artfully depicts the events of the Book of Revelation, also known as the Apocalypse. The prophetic text of St. John was one of the most influential texts of medieval philosophy and theology, and continues to be one of the most fascinating biblical texts today. The text in this manuscript is so precisely written that one could believe it was printed. It is organized with the help of elegant initials consisting of primary colors with gold leaf and flowering tendrils. 72 richly colored miniatures illustrate the events. These often have diligently patterned backgrounds and are further ennobled by the liberal use of gold leaf, as well as silver, including numerous burnished gold backgrounds in the Byzantine style, which are sometimes embossed with patterns. The figures have expressive faces, natural postures, and are dressed in flowing robes with a realistic fall of folds. All of these elements comes together to make this Gothic work a fine specimen of medieval manuscript art.