The dedication miniatures in the Egmond Gospels: a Byzantinizing iconography?
Krijnie N. Ciggaar
Abstract The Egmond Gospels, a much cherished manuscript in the Netherlands, have provoked wealth of publications, descriptions, commentaries, catalogue entries etc. Most noted are two dedication miniatures representing count Thierry Holland (d. 988) and his wife Hildegard, offering Evangeliary to abbey Egmond. MS is now Koninklijke Bibliotheek, Hague, cod. 76 F I. In present article an attempt has been made describe colour programme these more accurately with help stereomicroscope Munsell Color Atlas. Some suggestions about pigments which were probably used. A new date for proposed, taking into consideration their historical context iconography. most likely period from 974 980. this double portraits being introduced West, Ottonian world. An incentive style was undoubtedly arrival Byzantine princess Theophano who married Otto II 972. world imperial very common. After death her father-in-law I, 973 official recognition co-rulership 974, role became prominent, may stimulated making Western portraits, if not as propaganda then at least imitate court life. Egbert, son chancellor Reich 976 archbishop Trier 977. He played important art patron promoter, influence clearly discernible. Iconographical elements such proskynesis, disproportion between donors 'authorities', symmetry, portrait betray influence, indirectly via Ottonians, thus active force execution miniatures, wherein Egbert role, even artist workshop unknown.
Quaerendo