3-044-278 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Gospel Book, 1386. Additional Info: This Gospel book was written in 1386 by Armenian monk and scribe Petros, who identifies himself in an inscription at the end of the manuscript. A portrait of Petros is also found in the book showing him seated and holding pen and ink next to his student. The manuscript was made in the Lake Van region and the illuminations, like others from that area, are characterized by ornamentally curved lines, an elastic conception of the human figure, and spiraling drapery folds. The text is written in Armenian. In the Armenian tradition, the Gospel book is the focal point during the mass and it remains on the altar from which it is elevated at various moments during the service. This particular book begins with seven canon tables, which function as an index to the Gospels, followed by twenty-three full-page miniatures mainly dedicated to the life of Christ. Author portraits of the four Evangelists open each of the Gospels. This manuscript was made using paper, which had largely replaced parchment in Armenia as early as the thirteenth century.