Codex Purpureus Rossanensis

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A manuscript in gold, silver and purple

he Codex Purpureus Rossanensis is probably among the most valuable and fascinating manuscripts we know of. The codex is truly a manuscript of the world for various reasons. It enchants the viewer with the perfect execution of its 15 miniature pages which constitute an invaluable and irreplaceable testimony to Byzantine art in the 6th century. Executed nearly 1500 years ago, the Codex Purpureus is one of the oldest illustrated manuscripts in the world. Its outer appearance exhibits sheer royalty and the purple coloured parchment made the manuscript famous all around the globe.

The Greek text stretches over 386 pages and is written in silver and golden majuscules throughout. Unfortunately the manuscript is today incomplete, as half of its original 800 pages have been lost over the ages. The current version encompasses a complete Gospel of Saint Matthew and a nearly complete Gospel of Saint Mark.

15 exclusive miniatures

The importance of the book is further enhanced by the fact that, among the purple codices executed in the late classical period, only a few had been illustrated with pictures.

Some of these luxurious miniatures, which were created by the most talented artists of that time, cover a full page, others are set above or within the flowing text in frieze-like scenes. Both motives and style are derived from earlier models, probably from monumental wall paintings. The miniatures are said to be the finest examples of early Byzantine art preserved to this day.

The oldest picture of an Evangelist in the history of illumination

Of particular interest is the author’s portrait of Saint Mark, as it constitutes the oldest representation of an Evangelist in the history of illumination. The Codex Rossanensis stands out among older manuscripts of the same kind due to a curious new stylistic development. The miniatures manifest a strong inclination toward Byzantine art and fascinate the viewer due to their representative and monumental expression. In our codex, the classical way of painting was abandoned for the first time and a step was taken forward toward a more abstract early Byzantine art. This makes the manuscript one of the most significant documents of Eastern illumination.

The facsimile edition

All 386 pages of the manuscript in the format of 31 x 26 cm, including 15 miniature pages, are reproduced true to the original and in all detail. The text is written in gold and silver throughout. The binding consists of solid wooden boards and a half leather cover. The facsimile edition is limited to 750 copies. The commentary volume provides a comprehensive, detailed introduction to the codex and its miniatures.

A Documentation Kit containing a sample page, in the original size, from the Codex Purpureus Rossanensis Fine Art Facsimile Volume, plus an illustrated information brochure, is available for $US40-.

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