O la Au Likely an abbreviation for Augustinus (Augustine), a common authority in such manuscripts. De Commonly the start of a Latin title, meaning "On" or "Concerning." ha po es S A be ru du Co Possibly an abbreviation for Commentarius (Commentary) or Codex. ep Likely an abbreviation for epistola (letter). ip ee ill

Portrait of a Philosopher or Author

[Full-page Illumination]

This Romanesque pen-and-ink drawing portrays a seated figure, identified by his attributes as a philosopher or a venerable author. He wears a distinctive conical hat This type of headwear, often called a pilleus, was used by medieval artists to identify ancient scholars, prophets, or figures from the pre-Christian era. and holds a large, unfurled scroll volumen|a roll of parchment or papyrus diagonally across his body, representing the transmission of ancient wisdom. The figure sits upon a bench-style throne decorated with circular finials. The illustration is characterized by the expressive, fluid line-work and rhythmic drapery folds typical of the 12th-century Romanesque style.

While the previous page depicted a king (likely David), this portrait shifts the focus to intellectual or theological authority. The use of a scroll rather than a bound book emphasizes the figure’s connection to antiquity. In a 12th-century context, such a figure might represent a Church Father like Saint Augustine or a classical philosopher whose works were being integrated into medieval Christian thought. The minimalist line-drawing style, devoid of the heavy pigments seen in the previous portrait, focuses the viewer's attention on the form and gesture of the author.