Germany, Middle Rhine / c. 1480
Gospel Book with Evangelist Portraits
The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Gospel Book with Evangelist Portraits as bound volume (Germany, Middle Rhine · c. 1480).
The Hausbuch Master, also a printmaker, is thought to be the first artist to use a form of engraving known as drypoint.
A CLOSER LOOK
The museum identifies this bound volume as ink, tempera, and gold on vellum; original blind stamped leather binding and credits Master of the House-Book (German, c. 1470–1500).
The museum's collection notes: The four gospels are preceded by a full-page portrait miniature of the appropriate evangelist. Per tradition, they are represented as contemporary scribes surrounded by all the tools of their trade—ink pots, quill pens, and penknives. The anonymous illuminator of these miniatures, called the Hausbuch Master, is known primarily for an album of lively drawings as well as some 90 copper engravings now in Amsterdam. He was also apparently a panel painter of some distinction. The skillful pen work, tracery, and vine scrolls, as well as the large initials, are the work of other artists. The binding is original.
FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE
The Cleveland Museum of ArtGospel Book with Evangelist PortraitsOriginal explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.