Color and meaning in medieval art: the case of the Missal of Henry of Chichester

Abstract

This paper discusses the question of colour iconography in medieval art. It begins with a brief overview of the historiography of the subject  considering methodological issues and discusses the topic of color classification incorporating a discussion of colour notes in English medieval manuscripts. In the second part, there is an extended discussion of the use of colour in a thirteenth century English manuscript, the Missal of Henry of Chichester. Its color scheme is discussed with reference to color iconography focusing on blue, red and green (especially its use in the depiction of the cross). This is followed by a discussion of the taxonomy and symbolism of  skin colors, especially dark skin, which it is argued in this context is intended as a signifier of Jewish people. In conclusion, the use of colour in the Missal is related to broader developments in art and society of the period specifically its identity politics.