The Odbert Psalter (Boulogne-sur-Mer, BM, ms. 20); or, the Image as a Medium for Contemplative Practice

The monastic reforms of the 10th century greatly increased role psalter, a biblical book that became main tool monk in personal and collective prayer. Odbert Psalter, produced Saint-Bertin around 999, opens with scene Pentecost which we see Christ represented as king who is static space distinct from apostles, exhibiting an attitude meditation. This not narrative image: this indication for reader Psalms. If he follows example will arrive at vision God, can only be attained through continuous meditation on Psalms it was defined by reforms. image serves medium act contemplation itself: according to three modes Saint Augustine, constitutes pathway corporeal intellectual vision. By constituting support divine contemplation, psalter its images are set up here perfect mediators power intellect.