The Work of the Morgan Master at Winchester and English Painting of the Early Gothic Period
Larry M. Ayres
M. R. James once remarked how common it was to find leaves missing from medieval books; and, indeed, separated their manuscript fabrics, many such had little hope of surviving modern times.1 By happy chance, one detached and illustrated leaf the Winchester Bible has weathered its wanderings now ranks among most esteemed treasures Pierpont Morgan Library (ms 619; Figs. 1, 2).2 The “Morgan Leaf” is special interest art historian because contains work artist who probably first English illuminator step beyond bounds Romanesque into Gothic world. He been named Master Leaf, but for sake brevity, he will in this article be called Master. purpose present study verify traditional attribution Leaf scriptorium which produced (Winchester Cathedral Library). Secondly, I shall attempt date Master's period activity at Benedictine Priory Saint Swithun Winchester. Finally, characterize his artistic sources, discuss stylistic outlook, assess solution terms broader context developments Northwest Europe during last quarter twelfth century.
Art Bulletin