Product Review

"The Lindisfarne Gospels" is one of Britain's greatest artistic treasures, a surviving example of Anglo-Saxon book painting of the late-seventh century. Written and illuminated in honour of God and St Cuthbert, in about AD 698 by the monk Eadfrith, afterwards Bishop of Lindisfarne, it is famous for the quality and intricate design of its decorated pages. In this gift book, Janet Backhouse describes how the manuscript was made, placing it in the context of early Christian Northumbria. With all the major pages and many details reproduced in colour, this work represents an introduction for anyone interested in manuscript illumination, insular art and design and the early history of the book in Britain. An accompanying video, narrated by Kevin Whately, is available, ISBN 0-7123-0423-1 (PAL), 0-7123-0401-0 (NTSC).