Trinity Hall : Ralph of Flavigny on Leviticus

Ralph of Flavigny

Trinity Hall

<p style='text-align: justify;'>This is one of the earliest copies of an important Commentary on Leviticus by Ralph of Flavigny (Flaix), a Benedictine monk written circa 1150. This was the standard commentary on Leviticus until at least the mid-13th century. The text gives instructions on ritual, legal and moral practices which are God's covenant with the Jews.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>This Trinity Hall manuscript dates from the second half of the 12th century and was made for Simon, Abbot of St Albans (1167-1183). The illumination of this manuscript is very distinctive and can be linked stylistically to other work by the artist known as the “Simon Master”, identifiable through the style of the figures and facial types in his historiated initials and his use of green outline for the initial frames. On folio three, there is a notable first initial of the letter V, within which is portrayed in strong colours, the seated figure of Moses being addressed by God.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>The manuscript was given to Trinity Hall by Robert Hare (d. 1611).</p>