I made this drawing in imitation of the great illuminated Chi-Rho pages in 6-9th century Gospel manuscripts from Northumbria and Ireland. I consider the Lindisfarne Gospels and the Book of Kells to be pinnacle examples of the illustrator’s art, and I have been trying for at least half my life to create something similar. In these manuscripts, the beginning of the 18th verse of the first chapter of St. Matthew’s Gospel is given an elaborate artistic treatment:
Christi autem generatio sic erat: cum esset desponsata mater eius Maria Joseph...The word Christi, represented by the Greek abbreviation XPI, takes up most of the page. The style is characterized by intricate decorative knotwork, lacertine animals, interlocking spirals and rune-like lettering. My drawing combines the Chi-Rho monogram with images of Christ in Glory and the four beasts representing the Evangelists.
Now the generation of Christ was in this wise. When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph...
Medium: Drawing, color ink on calfskin vellum
Dimensions: 10 3/4" × 15 1/4"
Year: 2020
Open-edition giclée prints of this drawing are available. You may use the buttons below to pay via PayPal, debit card, or credit card. Be sure to confirm the shipping address.
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Actual size art print: $154
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24" × 32" large print: $308
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200dpi digital download: $31
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See this page for additional ordering instructions and general information. If you want to pay via a check or money order, please e-mail me at danielmitsuiartist@gmail.com.
