Lectionary

This typical chapter-heading begins the Gospel of St John.
Illuminated manuscript. Left panel- the descent into Limbo, the Anastasis.
Right panel- the inspired evangelist dictates his book.
The scenes are enclosed in an elaborate decorative frame and head the two columns of text, which was to remain an accepted arrangement in later manuscripts.
(33cm.x 25cm.) Pierpoint Morgan Library, New York.
Illustration- "The Early Christian & Byzantine World" by Jean Lassus, Professor of the Sorbonne, Paris, Institute of Art & Archaeology.
Published by Paul Hamlyn Ltd 1966.