Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Matthew the Evangelist


Matthew from the Book of Durrow. Late 7th century. Dublin, Trinity College.
In the Book of Durrow, the most important insular manuscript of its time, the ornamental repertory includes the interlaced frames that were typical of the northern islands. The chromatic palette is limited but well distributed in the magnificently executed designs. (Riccardo Belcari, Giulia Marrucchi)
This figure's clothing reminds me of Klimt's paintings and love of pattern and design. Maybe he was inspired by ancient manuscripts?

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