Antique Drawing-RAISING-LAZARUS-ARMENIAN MANUSCRIPT-Roslin-1985

A piece of Christian iconography, specifically an illuminated manuscript or a miniature painting. The text appears to be in Armenian, given the unique alphabet, which might suggest that this is a page from an Armenian illuminated manuscript, possibly a Gospel book or another religious text. A copy after an original: The Raising of Lazarus by Toros Roslin. Miniature. 1265 Jerusalem. Armenian Patriarchate.

The image depicts a biblical scene with several figures, including Jesus Christ, identifiable by the halo around his head that often contains a cross within it, a common feature in Christian iconography to represent Christ. He is depicted performing an act or a miracle, given the attention of the surrounding figures towards his gesture, specifically Christ’s raising of Lazarus.

The use of gold leaf and vibrant colors is typical of illuminated manuscripts. Such embellishments were used to decorate the text and to highlight the importance and the sanctity of the religious narratives contained within. The elaborate border and the detailed figures suggest that this piece was made with significant care, likely intended for use in religious devotion or liturgical services. These types of illustrations served both to adorn the sacred texts and to instruct the faithful on the stories and teachings of the Christian faith.

Made by an anonymous engraver after Karine [illegible] after Toros Roslin.

Medium: Drawing on Parchment paper.

Sheet size: 10.4 x 15.6 cm (4.09 x 6.14 inch). Image size: 7.2 x 11.6 cm. (2.83 x 4.57 inch).

Condition: good, given age. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scan carefully.

RAISING-LAZARUS-ARMENIAN | PCO-C44-27

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Source: unknown, to be determined.

Biography artist: Toros Roslin (c.1210-1270) was the most prominent Armenian manuscript illuminator in the High Middle Ages. Roslin introduced a wider range of narrative in his iconography based on his knowledge of western European art while continuing the conventions established by his predecessors. Roslin enriched Armenian manuscript painting by introducing new artistic themes such as the Incredulity of Thomas and Passage of the Red Sea. In addition he revived the genre of royal portraits, the first Cilician royal portraits having been found in his manuscripts. His style is characterized by a delicacy of color, classical treatment of figures and their garments, an elegance of line, and an innovative iconography.