The Breslau Psalter

Psalter with miniatures and historiated initials

Texts and Images

Psalms 1, 26, 38, 51, 52, 68, 80, 97, 101 and 109 introduced the ten sections into which medieval Psalters were often divided. Each of these ten Psalms is preceded by full-page miniatures and opens with a large historiated initial. The remaining 140 Psalms received small miniatures in the borders, usually illustrating their opening verse or main theme.

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1
Detail of the Virgin’s face and mantle under magnification (7.5x), showing the significant degradation of the verdigris pigment.
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2
Detail of an angel’s face under magnification (20x).

Crucifixion

This miniature painted by Hand A depicts a specific moment of the Crucifixion. Including the Virgin, St John and two adoring angles, it shows Christ’s side being pierced by the Roman centurion who would embrace the new faith as Jesus’ blood healed his blindness.

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