Medieval scribes and artists were some of the world’s first graphic designers. They planned individual pages and entire books in creative ways, using handwritten text and painted decoration. From layout to script to images, a wide variety of different design elements influenced how medieval books were read and interpreted. This exhibition explores the role of page design, text, and ornament in the organization of books to surprise, delight, and inform their viewers.
This exhibition is presented in English and Spanish. Esta exhibición se presenta en inglés y en español.
Selected Works
Events
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Publication
Understanding Illuminated Manuscripts: A Guide to Technical Terms, Revised Edition
Demystifying the techniques, processes, materials, and other key elements used in the making of illuminated manuscripts
Purchase this and other publications in the Getty Museum Store
Exhibition Resources
Discover more about the works featured in the exhibition.
Video
Making Manuscripts