Art Essay

The Book of Durrow is a classic example of an insular layout and illustration of the 9th century. The technique used is different from the traditional Roman art forms. It was seen for the first time in the classical history of Roman art decoration style. The picture showing a man symbolizing St. Mathew, is a fine example of an illuminated, Irish, ancient manuscript that profoundly uses beautiful and intricate patterns and color combinations for decoration. The delicate ornamentation and fine renderings of the symbols stand as a strong contrast to the rigidity and the geometric nature of the representation of St. Matthew, his body looking like an abstract form of bell shape. The decoration patterns have been derived from the metalwork designs. The checkered filling of the human figure implies the importance and liveliness of St. Mathew and his message. The ornamental border, using interlaced curves, highlights and animates the simple form of a human. The head of the human figure, staring straight ahead and the turned feet immediately establish a connection between the viewer and the artwork, inspiring belief.
Whereas, St. Matthew of the Coronation Gospels encompasses the affect of classical illusionism. The concept of the picture descends from the sculpted depictions of a 2D artwork showing a philosopher sitting and engrossed in writing. The classical use of light and shades within the colors and the Byzantine style elements of landscaping highlight the naturalistic setting that might be inspiring the philosopher to record his message (coronation commemoration). The brushwork on the clothes draped by St. Matthew and the shading style give an effect of depth, depicting a realistic body posture. The huge sized rising sun is the source of Matthew’s inspiration showing that some divine power works through him. We can see a Roman folding chair on which the poet/philosopher sits. It looks somehow out of place and modernistic for 9th century and represents the 10th century culture.