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The Book of Kells

Official Guide
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( 677 ratings, 54 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Book of Kells, dating from around 800 AD, is a masterly manuscript of the four Gospels, renowned for its extraordinary decoration. This official guide by Bernard Meehan, former Keeper of Manuscripts at Trinity College Library, Dublin, offers an in-depth exploration of this medieval masterpiece. It unpacks the manuscript's historical context, structure, intricate symbols, themes, and the skilled scribes and artists behind it, alongside the tools and pigments used in its creation. Detailed illustrations include reproductions of full pages and close-up details that highlight the richness and complexity of the design.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3199
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This guide is ideal for readers interested in medieval art, illuminated manuscripts, religious history, and cultural heritage. It suits both scholars and enthusiasts seeking to deepen their understanding of one of the greatest works in arts and culture.

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An enthralling guide to Irelandโ€™s greatest cultural treasure.

An enthralling guide to Ireland's greatest cultural treasure

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Book of Kells, dating from about 800, is a brilliantly decorated manuscript of the four Gospels. This new official guide, by the former Keeper of Manuscripts at Trinity College Library, Dublin, provides fascinating insights into The Book of Kells, revealing the astounding detail and richness of one of the greatest works of medieval art.

The illustrations in the guide include reproductions of complete pages, and details that allow one to marvel at the intricacy of the decoration. The Book of Kells is explored through its historical background; its structure; its decorative elements, including the richness of its symbols and themes; the scribes and artists who worked on the manuscript; and the tools and pigments used in its creation.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Church Times praises the book for its 'beautiful colour illustrations of both full pages and details'. The Methodist Enquirer notes it 'provides insights into the Gospels not found anywhere else'. Antiques Diary describes it as 'enthralling', highlighting 'the range of vivid colours' and the striking use of gold that creates this sacramental treasure.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780500480243

Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 08 February 2018

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Edition: New Edition

Illustration: 2 Illustrations, black and white; 96 Illustrations, color

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 190.0mm

Height: 248.0mm

Weight: 390g

Pages: 96

About the Author

Bernard Meehan is Keeper of Manuscripts at Trinity College Library, Dublin, owners of The Book of Kells and The Book of Durrow, two outstanding survivals from the early Scottish-Irish Christian world. He served on the government-appointed National Archives Advisory Council from 1987 to 1997.

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