The Date of the Initial Miniatures of the Etchmiadzin Gospel
Sirarpie Der Nersessian
The Etchmiadzin Gospel, no. 229, is one of the earliest dated Armenian manuscripts which have come down to our times. It was written in year 989 A. D. at monastery called Noravankh (new monastery), province Siunikh, district Vayots tsor, eastern region Great Armenia. colophon gives names owner and scribe. “And I, Stephannos, lowest humblest priest…. desired with great passion write…. word holy evangelists…. And let no dare remove this, for any reason, from this church Noravankh…. readings be made daily it old faithful models…. Armenians 438 [989 D.]…. This gospel belongs Lord Yovannes, wrote it. Remember [me]….”
Art Bulletin