The
Psalter of King Levon III
Background
This illumination
( actual
size 23 x 15 centimetres) is
from a psalter, a type of prayer book used for private worship.
A note on one of the folios denotes it once belonged to the Armenian
king, Levon III in 1283.
The scene is
typical of the reverence shown to the Mary, the Mother of God who,
in Armenian worship, is the first of all the saints. The iconography
has been inspired by Byzantine techniques.
This page enables
you to explore this exquisite illumination, one of the exhibition's
most spectacular treasures, and explains the significance of each
detailed element. Simply roll your mouse over the image to reveal
the hidden meanings behind the pictures. (Note: you must have a
version 4 browser or better to see the details and explanations).
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