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The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript of the four gospels, showcasing Insular art with unique style and stunning handwriting. It was made in the 8th century by Irish monks and is displayed at Trinity College Dublin. The manuscript is kept in archival conditions and has numerous reproductions worldwide.
The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript containing the four gospels of the New Testament, along with various supporting materials. It is an extremely fine example of Insular art, artwork produced in Britain and Ireland after the departure of the Romans, and many people consider it one of Ireland’s national treasures. As befits an Irish historical artefact, the Book of Kells is displayed at Trinity College Dublin, one of Ireland’s finest educational institutions.
Insular art is characterized by a unique style that was very different from that of the art produced in Europe at the same time. The Book of Kells features stunning handwriting, complemented by beautiful miniatures that include plants, animals, people, elaborate knots, and geometric designs. The miniatures include rich color and gilding and are incredibly detailed and accurate. The Book of Kells also includes several full-page portraits of various figures from the Gospels.
There is some debate as to where or when exactly the Book of Kells was produced. Most people agree that it was made around the 8th century by Irish monks who used a Latin edition of the Bible as a model. For a long time the manuscript was kept at Kells Abbey, hence the name, and in 1600 it arrived at Trinity College, its permanent home. In 1953 the folios were bound into four volumes.
Visitors to Trinity College can view several volumes of the Book of Kells on display at any one time, in a special room which has been designed with archival conditions, ensuring the book does not fade or become damaged. The books are kept inside air-conditioned, sealed glass cases, with the curators occasionally opening the cases to turn the pages, creating a rotating display.
Numerous reproductions of the Book of Kells can be found around the world, including several very similar facsimiles of the document. Many art books also include selections from the manuscript, as many people find the artwork haunting, beautiful, and just plain amazing. This masterpiece of Irish art is truly a magnificent cultural, historical and religious artefact.
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