Decorated letters
Object number: ROMGH.1999.271
Type: Drawing
Material: Paper, Pen and ink, Pencil
Width: 39cm | Height: 37.6cm
Production date: 1920 - 1947
A fascinating aspect of early medieval gospel books is the intricate design of some of the capital letters. The Book of Kells and Lindisfarne Gospels have numerous examples.
In this drawing George Bain has chosen two A’s and a B for study. He has created his own decorated F, based on elements from various capital letters in the Book of Kells. What really enhances the designs are the elaborate zoomorphic animals and intricate knotwork.
Two of the letters have the added instruction ‘Reverse for transfer’. Bain is highlighting their potential use as embroidery patterns.
See Bain's Celtic Art, Methods of Construction pages 94-95, Pates 11-13
Author: Diana Cobden
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