How to Look at: Illuminated Manuscripts

Sandra Hindman from mediaeval and renaissance book specialist Les Enluminures talks about two exquisite manuscripts from the 15th and 16th centuries, which they are presenting as part of the Frieze Masters section at Frieze Seoul. 

A choir book for Carthusian monks signalled moments of joy and colour, when the silent religious order, living high in the mountains, could use their voice and sing; and a book of hours from Tours in France led prayers throughout the day, through richly painted Biblical scenes and moments from the lives of female saints – possibly for a female patron. 

Shining with gold and silver and painted with lapis lazuli blue, both books are signed by their authors, which was unusual for the period; and heralded the seismic cultural shift from the anonymous craftsman of the Middle Ages to the lauded artist of the renaissance. 

Further Information  

Frieze Seoul is at COEX, 4 – 7 September 2024.

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