Strata: Judge This Book by Its Cover

Encased in gold and jewels, the Lindau Gospels is one of three remaining gold works from the Palace School of Charlemagne’s grandson, Charles the Bald. The ninth-century illuminated text from medieval France was on display in the Morgan Library and Museum until May of this year—but has now been removed for preservation in anticipation of its second coming in a September 2017 exhibition.

The lavish front cover features the entire crucifixion scene with Jesus on the cross and small versions of the Virgin Mary, John the Evangelist, two female mourners (see figures in rectangles below the arms of the cross) whose identity is debated—perhaps Mary Magdalene and Mary Clopas—and angels (see figures in rectangles above the arms of the cross).