Book of kells page

Page from the Book of Kells, one of the most famous illuminated manuscripts of the Medieval era, created by Celtic monks in the 9th century.

About this subject

The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript containing the four Gospels of the New Testament, written in Latin. It was produced by Celtic monks around 800 AD, likely at the monastery of Iona in Scotland or at the monastery of Kells in Ireland. The work is renowned for its ornate decoration, featuring elaborate initial letters, interlaced patterns, and stylized human and animal figures, using rare pigments such as lapis lazuli blue and gold.

The manuscript is a supreme example of Insular art, a fusion of Christian, Celtic, and Germanic influences. Every page is richly adorned, but the most famous is the Chi Rho page, which begins the Nativity narrative. The book survived Viking raids and the Reformation, remaining at Kells Abbey until the 17th century, when it was moved to Trinity College Dublin, where it is on permanent display.

The Book of Kells transcends religious significance: it is an Irish cultural icon, a symbol of national identity, and a tourist attraction. In 2011, it was inscribed on UNESCO's Memory of the World Register. The page depicted in this image, likely one of the decorated initials, demonstrates the geometric complexity and artistic devotion of the monks, who saw illumination as a form of divine praise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I see the original Book of Kells?

The Book of Kells is on permanent display at the Library of Trinity College Dublin, Ireland. Two pages are shown at a time in a climate-controlled case, and the pages are turned periodically.

How many pages does the Book of Kells have?

The original manuscript contains 340 folios (680 pages) of vellum. About 30 pages are fully decorated with illuminations, and many others have ornamental initials.

What inks were used in the Book of Kells illuminations?

Monks used natural pigments such as lapis lazuli blue (from Afghanistan), malachite green, lead red, orpiment yellow, and gold. Black ink was made from carbon black or soot.