The Binding and Loosing of the Beast (Bamberg Apocalypse)

This illumination is divided into two horizontal registers. In both scenes, a humanoid figure with a dragon-like head, prominent ears, and a serpent tail is shown naked and shackled. In the top scene, a white-robed angel with large, soft wings stands behind the creature, securing a chain around its neck as it faces a dark, cavernous opening. In the bottom scene, a different angel with darker wings leads the collared beast by a chain towards the dark opening. The figures are rendered with thick outlines and flat, muted colors against a stark, dark background.

This manuscript illumination illustrates the apocalyptic events described in the Revelation of John (Revelation 20:1-3), depicting the binding of Satan—represented here as the beast—and his eventual release. It reflects the Ottonian focus on the literal interpretation of biblical eschatology as a means of legitimizing the rule of the Holy Roman Emperor.