Painting the Apocalypse in Medieval Iberia: the Creation and Use of the Beatus IIa
Ana Patricia Cordeiro De Dias
The present study explores the production, illumination and reception of Beatus Liebana’s Commentarium in Apocalypsin – one most celebrated works early medieval Iberia within wider panorama illustrated Apocalypses from high Middle Ages. It examines detail sub-group manuscripts known as family IIa, comprising Morgan, Valladolid, Urgell, Facundus Silos examples, which, collectively, constitute cohesive iconographically rich group whole corpus.
This thesis addresses complex questions how illuminations were conceptualised both by their artists users and, ultimately, what role an text was. Through a systematic analysis mechanisms through which textual was translated into visual with particular attention placed on scribal artistic responses to colour number Revelation this investigation aims demonstrate that imagery not simply literal illustration it accompanies, but performs akin written medium, inviting sustaining scriptural exegesis supporting meditation (and preparation for) ‘last things’. In addition, working methods agency, arguing degree freedom relation sacred texts permissible, fidelity Scripture depended individuals proficiency.
In considering results broader context, comparing them evidence provided Carolingian Ottonian Apocalypses, also determines IIa comprehensive detailed corpus Apocalypse images Ages, may have fulfilled various roles over five centuries transmission.