illumination, in art

illumination, in art, decoration of manuscripts and books with colored, gilded pictures, often referred to as miniatures (see miniature painting); historiated and decorated initials; and ornamental border designs.

Sections in this article:

• Introduction
• Illumination in the Middle East and India
• The Golden Age of Illumination
• Illumination in Early Christendom
• Early Illumination
• Bibliography

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2024, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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