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< B A C K

See this work
in progress

S I Z E
A3. 12”x16.5” [30x42cm]

E R A
 800AD

S T Y L E
 Celtic, Ireland

S O U R C E S
Book of Kells, Book of Durrow, Lindisfairne Gospels.

C O M M E N T S
The most challenging of all styles to re-create is Celtic.
The artist must first create a convincing overall layout, and secondly fill that space with minute and varied motifs. These motifs include various swirls and rondels, zoomorphic figures and knotwork of all sizes and complexity.
The composition of this piece is loosely based on the chi-rho page of the Lindisfairne Gospels. This page demonstrates a pleasing balance of text and decoration.
As with the chi-rho page, the first word is the main decoration. Here the text begins “KNOW all men by these presents.....”
Note also that the patron’s name - Elspeth Turberville - is interwoven with intricate knotwork.
As Elspeth has a fondness for horses, there are 17 horses plus two horse’s heads included throughout the piece.