Portrait of the Evangelist John

Description This image of John the Evangelist, clothed in draped robes and sandals, recalls the tradition of classical author portraits. He sits on a folding chair and is actively writing in response to the inspiration he is receiving from his symbol, the eagle. Unlike his fellow Evangelists in this manuscript, John writes on an unfurled scroll that is draped across his lap.

Exhibitions

• Illuminating the Word: Gospel Books in the Middle Ages. The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore. 2004.

Provenance Freising, Germany, ca. 865-875; Germany, 19th century; Leon Gruel and Robert Engelmann, Paris, late 19th-early 20th century [mode of acquisition unknown, no.78]; Henry Walters, Baltimore, February 19, 1917 [mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.

Credit Acquired by Henry Walters, 1917