Lessons of Design

Lisbon Bible- dated from 1482.  This is a dated codex which means it is in book form rather than a scroll. As such it has a different design format.  The language would have been read from left to right, so a right alignment can be seen in the two columns.  This page  in particular is from the book of Genesis or Be-Reshit, folio 23v and 40r.  As a lover of books and reading today, it is with wonder to see the evident work and attention to detail given to this sacred text commissioned so long ago by a patron.  The scribes' work of art while creating a functional text.  Throughout the text the columns and margin notes are repeated as well as the script and language.  Use of colors are used as well to illuminate the work and adds to the richness of the manuscript.   A use of masoretic notes or comments can be seen in the margins on the sides and at the bottom of the page.  On other pages the notes are looping, curving and make a design.  This is a repeated theme but also the notes are in proximity to the content.  The use however is pleasing to the eye and adds to the design rather than detracts.  In the middle of the columns can be seen what looks like a bookmarker embedded on the page.  On this particular page, it is a silver, feathery marker with colorful tips of blue, purple and mauve and gold.  It actually does serve as a bookmarker or sorts according to the British Library website.  It  marks the beginning of a pericope which is a portion of the Torah and read aloud at prayers in revolving order.  The use of color, size of script and adding a marker gives a contrast making for easy to find placement.  The more I look at the book and analyze it, I am struck not by its beauty, but its functionality and practicality.  It is beautiful, but it is not just another pretty face.  It is well designed, organized, but nothing is there for just looks.  I think that is the underlying reason for designing a synonym for planning/organizing.  The techniques of design for beauty, functionality and appreciation for the sacredness of the text are apparent in the use of space, materials used to last through the ages, color of the art and craftmanship in script.      ( source of information:  British Library Online Gallery : Lisbon Bible) http://www.bl.uk/collections/treasures/lisbon/lisbon_broadband.htm?middle