L’apport de la reliure dans la magnification du codex tardo-antique et haut-médiéval

The Contribution of the Binding in the Magnification of the Late Antique and Early Medieval Codex . This article provides an overview of the materials and types of decoration by means of which — at least for the small group of luxury copies — the external appearance of the late antique and early medieval book was enhanced. While the uses of crafted leather, goldsmithing with gems and painted wood are well attested, it is doubtful — contrary to what has often been assumed — whether the same was really true for silver plaques and ivory diptychs with figurative decoration. On the other hand, these books largely rested in the hands of the clergy and were only glimpsed fleetingly by the faithful, making it unclear what impact they would have had.