Collection Online as of June 8, 2023
Part of a set. See all set records
Ink and tempera on vellum
Sheet: 17.5 x 11.5 cm (6 7/8 x 4 1/2 in.)
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1950.373.a
not on view
This initial L, for Liber generationis... (The book of the generation of Jesus Christ...), originally served as an introduction to the Gospel of St. Matthew. Unlike the Helmarshausen illuminator, who painted an actual portrait bust of St. Matthew (displayed nearby), this artist chose to paint within the letter the Evangelist's symbol, a winged man holding a book.