The Lindisfarne Gospels

by Janet Backhouse

"The Lindisfarne Gospels" is one of Britain's greatest artistic treasures, a surviving example of Anglo-Saxon book painting of the late-seventh century. Written and illuminated in honour of God and St Cuthbert, in about AD 698 by the monk Eadfrith, afterwards Bishop of Lindisfarne, it is famous for the quality and intricate design of its decorated pages. In this gift book, Janet Backhouse describes how the manuscript was made, placing it in the context of early Christian Northumbria. With all the major pages and many details reproduced in colour, this work represents an introduction for anyone interested in manuscript illumination, insular art and design and the early history of the book in Britain.

Genres: Art, History, Religion, Anglo Saxon, Medieval, Reference, Nonfiction

64 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1981

About the author

Janet Backhouse, a respected authority in her field, was a former curator of illuminated manuscripts for The British Library.

Reviews

[Melody Schwarting · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lovely look into one of the most beautiful biblical manuscripts. Evidently, Backhouse and I have divergent opinions about the constitution of "simple" knotwork. The Lindisfarne Gospels are uniquely Celtic in appearance, and are a refreshing break from continental medieval gospel texts. Plus, Northumbria is amazing, and Backhouse evokes the location wonderfully.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a highly enjoyable tour through the pages of a masterpiece of early medieval art. Full-color images of all the important decorative pages are included, described, and compared with other contemporary manuscripts and works of art. The history of the book and the fascinating characters who brought it to life are also memorably evoked.

[Keith · Rating 3 out of 5]

The work and detail put into this commentary on the Lindisfarne Gospels is certainly well done. The book itself goes into great detail about how the book was made and what it was made from, with comparisons to other similar artworks of the time. This is a detailed analysis, so if that is what you are seeking, then you will find this work very helpful.

[Kevin de Ataíde · Rating 3 out of 5]

Excellent introduction to a marvel of early English industry and a tribute to early English Catholicism. Full colour images of the elaborate illustration are very useful in a pocket-sized book such as this. Must visit the British Library again now.

[Jeannette · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the story behind the Lindisfarne gospels. The abbey where it was written, illuminated, and bound has an interesting history. The illustrations really reflect where it was created.

[Diana Kullman · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were more black and white than colored photos which was disappointing... especially when the vibrant colors were described in the text.

[Kris Dunn Troiano · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have traveled to Lindisfarne, and since that trip, I have read as much as possible about the history. Holy Island made me feel transported back to the seventh century. History was rich with religion and then brutally sacked and pillaged. It was the first place the Vikings sacked and pillaged. St Cuthbert is interesting to learn about in the book, and the text of the gospels is fascinating. I love the history of this ancient place. The book is excellent

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short, sweet, and to the point. This book delves into the creation and history of the Lindisfarne Gospels and other books of the period. The artwork in the book is stunning and the detail is staggering. The author's analysis of the meaning of the book, as well as the history of the manuscript is breathtaking and fascinating. Although this book covers religious texts, the references to the religious gospels are minimal and factual.

Overall I very much enjoyed this brief look into the past, And into the creation of books in the medieval world.