The term illumination comes from the Latin “illuminare” which means to illuminate or illuminate (to bring to light). This highlighting is based on the combination of a paint (based on pigments) done by hand on parchment, and gold (or silver) leaf. However, the first illuminations (at the end of the fourth century) did not include gold or silver (given their rarity and price).
Illumination is used to decorate the text of a manuscript in order to highlight it (initial cap), to illustrate the theme addressed in the text (miniature), or more simply to decorate the page (banners, borders, bottom of page, etc.). Illuminations in the Middle Ages served as both a landmark and a medium to convey unwritten messages or symbols.
Discover illumination!
This introductory course will introduce you to the traditional techniques for creating a medieval illumination.
How do the internships take place?
First of all, you choose your illumination from the many models available (but you can also bring your own!).
Alphabet (initial), historiated drop cap, champie drop cap, zoomorphic drop cap, etc...
You trace your model , prepare your parchment (goat skin), apply the gold then apply the colors (from natural pigments).
Meet me in Montauban at Pigmalia Paint and Decoration Store Zone Nord 6 Rue Voltaire on Wednesday morning by reservation only.
And soon in Cahors
Want to discover Illumination or medieval Latin Calligraphy, to step into the shoes of an Artisan, for an afternoon or a day?
These discovery workshops are made for you!!!
Treat yourself to an introductory course in illumination and discover the production techniques used in the Middle Ages…
You will be presented with the different facets of this often little-known art, the manipulation of tools such as parchment, pigments and gold leaf. Several of my works are exhibited in my shop/workshop and you will be able to follow the evolution of the latest creations.
Video page of illumination and calligraphy tutorials under construction.
Your own creation can be illuminated
Your personal creation can be ENLIGHTENED for this send a sketch, the style of the desired era, the desired pigment colors, the precision on the support (paper or parchment) and if you wish to include gold or silver in leaves.
To do this, make your sketch and draw legends indicating the colored areas. “SEE EXAMPLE”
A QUOTE will be offered to you , contact us
SESHAT shop offers payment in 4 installments free of charge with the possibility of paying a deposit of the amount of your choice.
All works are sold with a certificate of authenticity.
Your first name illuminated with a drop cap.
Often confused with the initial, a drop cap is a letter larger than the text that follows it and which occupies a vertical space of several lines in the paragraph where it is placed. It can be highlighted by the application of a color, a simple pattern, or by illumination.
Meet me in Montauban at Pigmalia Paint and Decoration Store Zone Nord 6 Rue Voltaire on Wednesday morning by reservation only.
"I recently acquired an illumination from this workshop, and I am amazed by the artistic quality. Every detail is carefully crafted, and the work brings an elegant medieval touch to my home. An artistic investment that I will always cherish. !"
"I discovered illumination thanks to this exceptional workshop. The experience was enriching, and I am proud to have created such a beautiful work. Thank you for this unique artistic immersion!"
"This illumination workshop was a real revelation for me. The mix of creativity and history made this experience unique. Thank you to the whole team for this magical day!"
"The medieval calligraphy I purchased here is simply magnificent. The choice of colors, the precision of the lines – everything is remarkable. It is a piece that catches the eye and sparks conversation. An artistic acquisition of which I am proud ."
"This workshop allowed me to delve into the art of illumination in a unique way. Ms. Bidas shared her expertise with patience, making each step of the process exciting."
"I purchased an illumination to give as a gift, and the recipient was absolutely delighted. The personalization and authenticity of the work make it a unique present. Thank you for this exceptional creation which made a special moment even more memorable. "
"I ordered a custom illumination to commemorate a special event, and I am delighted with the result. The customization process was easy, and the final work exceeded my expectations. An artistic investment that will remain meaningful for years to come. come."
"My acquisition of a medieval illumination is a true artistic gem. The intricacy of the patterns and the fluidity of the letters demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship. This piece now occupies a special place in my art collection."
