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Book of Kells: KellsFol130rIncipitMark
Summary
The Book of Kells (Latin: Codex Cenannensis; Irish: Leabhar Cheanannais; Dublin, Trinity College Library, MS A. I., sometimes known as the Book of Columba) is an illuminated manuscript Gospel book in Latin, containing the four Gospels of the New Testament together with various prefatory texts and tables. It was created in a Columban monastery in either Scotland, England, or Ireland and may have had contributions from various Columban institutions from each of these areas. It is believed to have been created c. 800 AD. The text of the Gospels is largely drawn from the Vulgate, although it also includes several passages drawn from the earlier versions of the Bible known as the Vetus Latina. It is a masterwork of Western calligraphy and represents the pinnacle of Insular illumination. The manuscript takes its name from the Abbey of Kells, which was its home for centuries.
The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript of the Latin Gospels, containing the four Gospels of the New Testament. It is considered one of Ireland's greatest national treasures and a masterpiece of Western calligraphy and illumination. The book was created around 800 AD by Celtic monks, possibly at the Abbey of Iona in Scotland or the Abbey of Kells in Ireland. It is named after the latter location. The manuscript is written on vellum, which is calfskin prepared for writing or printing. The Book of Kells is famous for its intricate and highly detailed illustrations and decorations. It features elaborate initials, ornate borders and vibrant colours, often incorporating animal and human figures as well as Celtic knots and interlacing patterns. The illustrations are abstract and stylised, combining Christian symbolism with elements of Celtic art. The book consists of 340 pages, each measuring approximately 33 x 25 cm (13 x 10 inches). It is divided into four sections, each containing one of the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. In addition to the biblical text, the manuscript also contains various prefaces and canonical tables, which are used to compare parallel passages in the Gospels. The Book of Kells survived numerous Viking raids and was eventually moved to the Abbey of Kells for safekeeping. It remained there until the 17th century, when it was transferred to Trinity College Dublin, where it is now housed in the Old Library. Today it is a symbol of Ireland's cultural heritage and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The intricate artistry and craftsmanship displayed in the Book of Kells have made it an enduring symbol of medieval manuscript illumination. Its historical significance, combined with its stunning visual appeal, has made it one of the most famous and celebrated manuscripts in the world.
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