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The Mutilation of Byzantine Emperors Justinian II and Philippicus

Creator

French Illuminator · 1390–1430

In the early 1400s, the Boucicaut Master was the leading master of manuscript illumination in Paris and one of the most influential artists working in the International style in northern Europe. The Boucicaut Master appears to have supervised a talented team of artists who produced manuscripts commissioned by the king of France, high-ranking aristocrats, and the wealthy bourgeoisie. He probably al

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Date: about 1413–1415
Medium: Tempera colors, gold leaf, gold paint, and ink
Culture: French
Department: Manuscripts
Institution: Getty Museum

At the left, a man cuts off the nose and lips of the Byzantine emperor Justinian II, whose ruthlessness led to the revolt of his people in 695. Justinian regained control of his kingdom but was later deposed, resulting in Philippicus's succession as emperor. According to Boccaccio, Philippicus waged war against sacred images and their veneration. His army deposed and blinded him, as seen on the right. Having tried to prevent others from viewing sacred images of God and the saints, he fittingly lost his own sight.

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