Canon Table Page 1256

This Canon Table Page was created by Toros Roslin, a prominent Armenian artist during the 13th century. These tables served as concordances, guiding readers through the Gospels by listing parallel passages. Roslin’s work exemplifies the rich artistic traditions flourishing within the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia. Note the elaborate ornamentation: vibrant colors, intricate geometric patterns, and stylized flora and fauna which reflect both local aesthetics and influences from the broader Byzantine world. The Armenian Church was a vital institution, and illuminated manuscripts like this played a crucial role in shaping religious identity and learning. The placement of these canon tables at the beginning of a Gospel book indicates the importance of contextualized reading in that time. By studying such artifacts, along with related religious texts and historical records, we gain insight into the cultural and intellectual life of medieval Armenia and the role of art in its preservation.