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Leaves from the Bernward Bible

German (Hildesheim)

early 11th century

Not on view

The Bernward Bible is the only complete Ottonian Bible to survive from the tenth and early eleventh centuries. (It is currently disbound as the manuscript undergoes conservation.) It exemplifies the virtuosity of Ottonian calligraphy, lavishly decorated with intricately detailed ornamental initials. In comparison, the canon tables are surprisingly sparse. The similarity of the lettering of this Bible and the Guntbald Sacramentary (nearby) suggests that Bishop Bernward commissioned this volume as well.

Leaves from the Bernward Bible, Opaque paint, gold, and silver on parchment, German (Hildesheim) — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Leaves from the Bernward Bible

Date: early 11th century

Culture: German (Hildesheim)

Medium: Opaque paint, gold, and silver on parchment

Dimensions: Overall: 17 11/16 x 13 9/16 in. (45 x 34.5 cm)
Overall (Footprint Dimensions): 17 15/16 x 27 3/16 in. (45.5 x 69 cm)

Classification: Manuscripts and Illuminations

Credit Line: Dom-Museum Hildesheim (DS 61)

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Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.