Description

Opening Manuscripts, inspired by Elly Miller's passion for manuscripts and her commitment to their study, shines a light on the many ways in which medieval manuscripts can be understood. From the physical unfolding of the parchment to discussions of iconography, dating and influences, over time and across countries, each of the volume's nineteen richly illustrated essays by distinguished scholars in the field asks us to explore a different aspect of the illuminated manuscript. It is a splendid tribute to Elly Miller (1928-2020), the driving force behind Harvey Miller Publishers, who championed medieval art for over half a century. From 1970 to the end of her life, her role as publisher, not only commissioning but also personally editing and designing, was fundamental to the development of the scholarly study and wider appreciation of handwritten and illustrated books of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.