Symbols of the Evangelist (Ox of St. Luke) from the Book of Kells (Folio 27v)
Hand-rendered facsimile drawing on paper • Unknown student, hobbyist, or artisan; after the original 9th-century insular artist
Style & Movement
Insular Art (Celtic/Hiberno-Saxon) style revival
Medium & Technique
Color pencil or ink on paper with metallic gold-tone border; likely a modern reproduction or study
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (modern copy)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8 x 10 inches (image size); vertical portrait orientation within decorative framing
Subject Description
The work depicts the Calf (or Ox), the traditional symbol for Luke the Evangelist, characterized by wings and a halo. The figure is stylistically rendered with interlace-style patterns and curved anatomical lines typical of Medieval manuscript illumination.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; some minor surface dust and potential oxidation of the silver-toned inner matting
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $100 USD
Provenance History
Private collection; lacks formal gallery labels. The presence of a handwritten 'Book of Kells' tag suggests it was acquired as a souvenir or produced as an educational study.
Art Historical Significance
This is a modern interpretive copy of one of the most famous illuminated manuscripts in history. While the original Book of Kells (c. 800 AD) is of supreme historical value, this specific piece serves as a decorative tribute or educational tool.
Notable Features
Handwritten notations at the bottom of the paper identify the folio number (27v) and subject (Luke), indicating it was created as a specific study of the original manuscript located at Trinity College, Dublin.
Condition Issues
The paper appears slightly rippled beneath the glass; frame shows minor edge wear consistent with age.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the work is kept out of direct sunlight to prevent fading of the colored pigments. Acid-free matting is recommended if the current materials are found to be non-archival.