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Title Page of the Gospel of John

Illuminator Sargis Armenian
1300–1310
Not on view
This richly decorated leaf emphasizes the Gospel of John as the summation of the four Gospels by including the symbols of the four evangelists—an angel for Saint Matthew, a lion for Saint Mark, an ox for Saint Luke, an eagle for Saint John—in the large first letter, or incipit, and in the elaborate headpiece over the text. Byzantine-style geometric patterns fill the rest of the incipit. Bird-shaped letters form the first words of the text. At the top is Christ, framed by peacocks, who raises his hand in blessing. Early Armenian theologians described birds as representing souls flying to heaven.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Title Page of the Gospel of John
  • Illuminator: Sargis (active early 14th century)
  • Date: 1300–1310
  • Geography: Made in Armenia, Siwnik
  • Medium: Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper
  • Dimensions: Page:
    H. 12 1/2 in. (31.7 cm)
    W. 9 1/4 in. (23.5cm)
    Mat:
    H. 19 3/16 in. (48.7 cm)
    W. 14 5/16 in. (36.4 cm)
  • Classification: Codices
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1938
  • Object Number: 38.171.2
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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