Exaltation and Humiliation: The Decorated Initials of the Corbie Psalter (Amiens, Bibliothèque municipale, MS 18)
Heather Pulliam
Very few illuminated Psalters survive from the seventh and eighth centuries, yet little attention has been given to Corbie Psalter (Amiens Bibliothèque municipale, MS 18). The manuscript's sixty figurative initials contain images ranging Nativity Nathan's admonition of David so offer vital insights into early approaches illustration. Whereas earlier publications have noted stylistic similarity Book Kells Mercian sculpture, present study reveals that Psalter's treatment word-image relationships also much in common with Insular art. illustrations follow tradition, especially its focus on struggle individual, strength God's protection, promise eventual victory good over evil. Much imagery carries multivalent meaning, collapsing time as yoke actions future eternal consequences: those who suffer humble themselves earth will be glorified heaven, proudly elevate humiliated at judgment. Many do not refer a single event or person but instead incorporate multiple biblical exegetical references illustrate specific theme, such prayerful humility before God spiritual adversity. article concludes consideration implications open readership function.
Gesta