The Peterborough Psalter

Modelling of draperies

Artists' Techniques

The figures in this Psalter reflect the evolution from linear decorative fold patterns to a more naturalistic modelling of draperies. Gradations of colour are used to suggest volume and there is clear awareness of shadows and highlights, even though folds are still defined with thick black outlines, reminiscent of earlier modelling techniques.

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1
Detail of the peacock’s body under magnification (7.5x). Losses in the silver layer reveal the dark orange bole underneath.
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2
Detail of the peacock’s tail under magnification (7.5x). Previous paint layers are visible under the darkened silver.
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3
Detail of Christ’s draperies under magnification (7.5x), showing the modelling technique. Cross-hatching is visible in the mantle, where criss-crossing lead white lines are painted over ultramarine blue.
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4
Detail of Christ’s pink tunic under magnification (20x). The typical craquelure pattern confirms the organic nature of the red colourant.

Historiated initial D with Christ in Majesty and a peacock (Psalm 109)

The peacock, which forms the curving ascender of the initial D, symbolises the Resurrection and immortality. The use of silver for the peacock is unique within the manuscript. The dark colour bleeding through the parchment, as well as extensive losses indicate that the metal has tarnished (hotspot 1). Silver was applied over an orange layer containing gypsum and ochre. It appears to have been laid over previous paint layers (hotspot 2).

Christ’s mantle is modelled with lead white highlights and cross-hatching over the ultramarine blue base (hotspot 3). A yellow organic glaze is applied over a white base in the inner part of the mantle. The pink tunic is painted with an organic red dye mixed with gypsum and lead white (hotspot 4).

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