Lindau Gospels: A Hidden Treasure

Characterized by its unique embellishments, detailing, and craftsmanship, the Lindau Gospels are known for portraying the beauty and grandeur of the Carolingian Era. Although the Lindau Gospels were originally crafted in the 9th century CE towards a Christian audience, its charm and influence has left a profound impact on historians and enthusiasts alike.

Lindau Gospels front cover.
Image Source: https://www.themorgan.org/collection/lindau-gospels

The Lindau Gospels are named after the Abbey of Lindau, a religious center located in Germany where the Gospels were originally kept. The Gospels contain all four gospels belonging to the Bible (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) along with additional study resources (chapter prefaces, calendars, etc.). The Lindau Gospels date back to the 9th century CE during the reign of Charlemagne, king of the Franks, who now occupy much of France, Germany, and Belgium. Several theories that indicate Charlemagne's idea for the Lindau Gospels include how Roman emperor Constantine became a significant religious figure in allowing for a rebirth of religion and the legalization of Christianity, allowing those to freely practice their religious rights ("Lindau Gospel Cover [video]"). Most importantly, Constantine was able to bridge previous gaps between Christian versus pagan ideas, which later unified and allowed the Roman Empire to flourish. As a distinguished ruler himself, Charlemagne wanted to make these similar efforts in promoting Christianity and often looked up to Constantine as a religious model and inspiration in enforcing these actions among his people. Another probable reason behind Charlemagne's purpose in establishing the Lindau Gospels was that he intended for the Gospels to be utilized as a gift for Charles the Bold, his grandson; the elaborate decorations and artistry curated by these artists explain this.

Lindau Gospels back cover.
Image Source: https://www.themorgan.org/collection/lindau-gospels

The intricate artwork displayed on both the front and back sides of the cover portray realism and an emphasis of the Christian lifestyle. The front cover of the Lindau Gospels is significantly referred to more often than the back cover on account of greater religious context being applied, as well as the striking amount of imagery involving the crucifixion of Jesus and figures mourning over his death. Some have interpreted the front cover illustrating God's prophecy of a new heaven as indicated in later chapters of Revelation, due to the setting of gold, pearls, and gemstones exemplified in the piece and how they also relate to the biblical verses expressing a very similar setting in heaven. Despite this, the front cover was produced later than the back cover and at a different location, most likely on account of the time, effort, and dedication it took for the artists to find the necessary supplies and resources in crafting this majestic beauty ("Lindau Gospels"). The front cover features a golden background with a border decorated in pearls and various gemstones in addition to a crucifix located in the center featuring Jesus Christ being nailed to the cross. Surrounding the crucifix are angels located above who are looking down on Jesus, while the figures that are beneath Jesus are either the mourners that appear to be rising towards Him or the preeminent biblical figures St. John and Mary ("Cover of the Lindau Gospels"). In between these people resembles additional gemstones that incorporate further depth and realism into this piece, adding to the amazement and mystery behind the Lindau Gospels.

Today, the Lindau Gospels are housed in the Morgan Library and Museum in New York, named after prominent businessman J.P. Morgan, who once bought the Gospels in 1901.

Sources:

"Cover of the Lindau Gospels Crucifixion and Mourning Figures." Medieval Art, http://projects.leadr.msu.edu/medievalart/exhibits/show/medieval_east_crucifixion_depi/crucifixion_and_mourning_figur. Accessed 12 Sept. 2019.

"Lindau Gospels." Morgan Library and Museum, https://www.themorgan.org/collection/lindau-gospels. Accessed 12 Sept. 2019.

"Lindau Gospels Cover (video) | Carolingian." Khan Academy, https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/medieval-world/carolingian1/v/lindau-gospels-cover. Accessed 12 Sept. 2019.