Manuscritos iluminados en Cataluña (1250-1350). Contribuciones a su estudio

Resumen

This PhD thesis contributes to the knowledge on illuminated codices in Catalonia between 1250 and 1350. It analyses a corpus of illuminated manuscripts linked to the geographical area of mediaeval Catalonia, dating the aforementioned period. A distinction is made between those imported from different locations in France —present in mediaeval Catalonia— and those produced in Catalonia proper. Both are essential for illustrating the development of miniatures in Catalonia between 1250 and 1350. A selection of representative works has been chosen to exemplify the artistic evolution in illuminated Catalan manuscripts. They cover a range of texts, with a prevalence of bible works and those for prayer or devotional purposes. In order to gather the corpus, collections from the episcopal libraries in Catalonia were consulted. This was complemented by other illuminated manuscripts linked to mediaeval Catalonia that are today found elsewhere. Aspects regarding their material workmanship that are useful for knowledge about the production of miniature Catalan codices are analysed. This approach is complemented by consultation of documentary sources required to interpret and historically reconstruct the literary environment in Catalonia between 1250 and 1350. The research focuses on several central pillars: identifying and explaining the settlement and production of French craftsmen and the arrival of French manuscripts in Catalonia; the reception of French visual models through their impact on manuscripts produced in Catalonia; and the importance of cathedral centres as focal points in promoting and disseminating illuminated manuscripts. The thesis provides results on each of these aspects. Several codices affiliated with the workshop of a master from the French Midi and settled in Vic are presented, as well as other testimonies regarding the work of Parisian and southern French painters who settled in Catalonia between 1250 and 1350. Alongside this, there is a varied selection of French manuscripts held today in Catalan episcopal libraries. The constant arrival of foreign craftsmen and miniature codices is investigated, as is the diversity of visual models in the reference timeframe. The development of Catalan miniatures and their commonalities with French versions is explained. The relevance of episcopal sees as mediators and agents for the reception, creation and dissemination of books is highlighted. The procedures and resources of the prelates are analysed with regard to manuscript promotion and collecting. The conclusions point out the crucial ties to the French Midi region in the origins and development of illuminated manuscripts, as well as documenting how the nature of these links vary between the time periods of 1250-1300 and 1300-1350. Biblia Sacra manuscripts are paramount in the first stage, where Catalan linear gothic develops with variants linked to models from both northern and southern France. This process is tied to religious centres. Textual topics and the function of manuscripts diversify in the second stage, with theological and liturgical examples linked to law studies or literary creation. The Catalan miniature develops alongside examples from the Midi. Episcopal sees and their prelates remain active, although the General Study of Lérida is incorporated. Catalonia then acquires a new standout role as a centre of production for illuminated manuscripts.