Notes for the Illuminator: The Case of the Omne bonum

Abstract

The Omne bonum, a unique illustrated encyclopedia composed in London between 1360 and 1375 by James le Palmer, Treasurer's Scribe in the Exchequer, was left unfinished at the compiler's death in 1375, both as to its text and its extensive program of illustrations. Subsequently, ca. 1380, twenty-three historiated intitials—for which there are written marginal instructions—were inserted in spaces that had been left empty. Examination of the respective parts played by the author, original scribe, later instruction-writer, and artist suggest a more independent role for the illuminator than is usual in cases where marginal notes are supplied for manuscript images.

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