Erasing God: Carolingians, Controversy, and the Ashburnham Pentateuch
Jennifer Cecelia Awes-Freeman
The images and theologies of the Trinity during transition from Late Antiquity to early Middle Ages have remained largely unstudied as a phenomenon. In this regard, Creation folio sixth-century Ashburnham Pentateuch (Paris, BnF, NAL 2334, f. 1v) provides valuable case study; in its original state, illustration presented an anthropomorphic at work first few days Creation. Father Son were depicted standing side by four times, while Holy Spirit was only once winged man hovering over waters. ninth century, which time possibly-Italian manuscript had traveled Tours, figures three Sons, one Fathers, painted over. While origins remain obscure, modification image demonstrates desire for theological orthodoxy iconographic consistency, made conform contemporaneous Carolingian depictions single Creator. This embodied response seems emerged context political instability; manuscriptâs redactor may been countering debates issues such filioque adoptionism with assertion absolute unity persons Trinity. Moreover, theory, most notably expressed Theodulf OrlA©ansâ Opus Caroli Regis contra Synodum, revealed pervasive belief hierarchy word potential danger latter, enabled perhaps even necessitated Pentateuchâs image.