[Manuscript illumination: Initial E, Saint Stephen martyred]
Collection:CSM Museum & Study Collection
Date: [13th century]
Dimensions:
155 x 150 mm (15.5 x 15 cm)
Image: 155 x 149 mm (15.5 x 14.9 cm)
Medium: Paint and gold leaf on parchment
Object number: F.37
DescriptionA large major initial 'E', probably from a choir book, in a gold rectilinear ground with stylised acanthus flourishing. This is a fine example of an historiated major initial, such is the narative of the scene held within the 'E'. The scene shows the Martyrdom of Saint Stephen (who was stoned to death). Saint Stephen in red dalmatic, kneeling, six executioners, and angel in sky, on solid gold ground.
An example of a major historiated initial from a large monastic choir book (either a Gradual or an Antiphonal).
An example of a major historiated initial from a large monastic choir book (either a Gradual or an Antiphonal).