A Comparative Study of Religious Color Symbolism in the Lindisfarne Gospels and the Walters Qur’an Manuscript from the Timurid Era

Abstract: Statement of the Problem: Coloration in religious manuscripts has always held a distinctive position in both Islamic and Christian art and culture. The Lindisfarne Gospels and the renowned Walters Quran, each belonging to different historical periods, are exemplary representations of this artistic tradition. This paper aims to conduct a comparative analysis of religious coloration in these two manuscripts, examining the differences and similarities in the use of colors as tools for conveying religious and cultural concepts in these two distinct faiths.

Research Objective: The primary objective of this study is to examine and analyze the differences and similarities in the techniques and applications of color in these two renowned religious manuscripts. The study also seeks to understand how these colors reflect the unique cultural and religious identities within each manuscript, and what connections exist between the choice of colors and the religious themes present in these works.

Research Questions:

1. What are the differences and similarities observed in the use of colors in the Lindisfarne Gospels and the Walters Quran?
2. What religious and cultural roles do the colors play in both manuscripts?
3. How have the artists and scribes of these religious works used colors to convey religious concepts?
4. How have the cultural and historical differences of the Timurid era and the relevant Christian periods influenced color selection in these works?

Research Methodology: This research will employ a descriptive-analytical  method and comparative approach. Initially, the artistic and coloration features of the two manuscripts—the Lindisfarne Gospels and the Walters Quran—will be examined through existing literature and images. These features will then be compared and explained based on historical and religious sources.

Data Collection Method: Information will be gathered through careful study of the manuscripts available in reputable libraries and museums, accompanied by analysis of images of these manuscripts. Additionally, previous studies on religious coloration and the arts of Islam and Christianity, as well as historical and cultural sources related to the Timurid era and Christian periods in Europe, will be utilized.

Summary of Findings: The research has revealed significant differences and similarities in the use of colors in the Lindisfarne Gospels and the Walters Quran. Furthermore, the findings underscore the relationship between religious art and cultural-religious identity in the Christian and Islamic traditions, as manifested in the choice of colors used in the decoration and illumination of these manuscripts. These selections serve as symbols of cultural identity and religious thought.

Keywords: Lindisfarne Gospels, Timurid period Quran, Color, Illumination, Book design, Religion.