description Theodore Psalter Overview
The Theodore Psalter is a Byzantine illuminated manuscript produced in 1066 at the Studios Monastery in Constantinople. Written and illustrated by the monk Theodore, it contains the Greek text of the Psalms accompanied by extensive marginal imagery that interprets the text through biblical, theological, and contemporary references. The manuscript is held by the British Library as Additional Manuscript 19352.
help Theodore Psalter FAQ
Who wrote the Theodore Psalter?
The Theodore Psalter was written and illustrated in 1066 by a monk named Theodore of Caesarea. He produced the manuscript at the Studios Monastery in Constantinople for a patron named Michael.
What makes the Theodore Psalter historically significant?
It is one of the most extensively illustrated Byzantine manuscripts in existence, containing over 400 marginal and full-page images. The illustrations deeply connect the text of the Psalms with theological commentary and contemporary 11th-century Byzantine life.
Where is the Theodore Psalter housed today?
The physical manuscript is currently held in the British Library in London (Add MS 19352). It was acquired by the British Museum in the 19th century from a collector.
What type of text does the Theodore Psalter contain?
It contains the Greek text of the Book of Psalms alongside a medieval commentary. The text uses the Septuagint translation and is organized into the traditional twenty kathismata (divisions) used in Eastern Orthodox monastic worship.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
