Getty Museum

Decorated Initial V

Date

late 10th century

Medium

Tempera colors, gold paint, silver paint, and ink

Culture

Ottonian

Department

Manuscripts

Institution

Getty Museum

This ornate initial V, containing both elaborate vegetal forms and intricate knotwork, introduces the reading for the feast of Saint Peter on June 29. A disciple of Christ and patron saint of the papacy, Peter is among the most important saints in Western Christianity. In the text, Christ indicates Peter's future role as leader of the Church by proclaiming, "upon this rock I will build my church." The silver and gold that dominate the page are balanced by touches of orange and a field of delicate lavender within the initial.

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