Friday, June 13, 2014

The Book of Kells at Trinity College

This amazing tome was probably produced by the monks of Iona in the early 9th century. It's a compilation of the four Gospels written in Latin and intricately and artistically decorated. The beauty of the work is surpassed only by the effort associated with its production and preservation.
Consider it survived Viking raids, Oliver Cromwell, plus Irish weather. And even the logistics of its making are staggering. Where do you get adequate lighting for this level of work in the 9th century?
To read something that ancient is pretty cool. The Long Room Library above the Book of Kells is an inspiration for the next library I build.


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