Royal Psalter of Sainte-Chapelle Faksimile Edition

The Royal Psalter of Sainte-Chapelle – A Masterpiece of Medieval Illumination
 

The Royal Psalter of Sainte-Chapelle (Bibliothèque de l’Arsenal, Ms. 1186) stands as one of the most exquisite treasures of medieval manuscript art. Created around 1230 and now published for the first time as a faithful facsimile edition, this magnificent illuminated manuscript is a sublime testament to the splendour of French Gothic book art.

A Royal Commission for Blanche of Castile

This exceptional Royal Psalter is believed to have been commissioned for Blanche of Castile, mother of King Louis IX (Saint Louis). Psalters were among the most widely read and richly adorned biblical texts in the Middle Ages, and this manuscript is no exception. Lavish use of gold leaf, radiant colours, and exquisite miniatures make this Psalter a masterpiece of artistic and devotional significance.

Radiant Miniatures and Ornate Detailing

Comprising 192 folios in a stately format of 28 × 22 cm, the Psalter dazzles with visual opulence on every page. Of particular note are the 27 full-page miniatures, each set within intricately interlaced medallions, depicting biblical scenes in a style reminiscent of the stained-glass windows of Gothic cathedrals. The calendar section contains an additional 24 roundels representing the zodiac signs and seasonal motifs, while the psalm text is adorned with gilded initials, refined ornamentation, and whimsical drolleries—including dragons, birds, dogs, and other fantastical beasts, often frolicking beyond the text frames.

A Treasure of the Sainte-Chapelle

This opulent manuscript resided from 1335 within the sacred treasury of the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, the royal chapel of the French crown. It was not until the late 18th century that it was transferred to the Bibliothèque de l’Arsenal. The Psalter’s original binding, one of the rare surviving examples of Romanesque bookbinding, was likely adorned with a luxurious fabric cover (a so-called "chemise") embroidered in gold with fleur-de-lys, commissioned by King Charles V. This historically significant feature is faithfully reproduced in the facsimile edition, which is presented in an elegant wooden case.

A Manuscript of Aristocratic Devotion

The Psalter’s lavish decoration and abundant use of gold suggest it was created for a noblewoman of the highest rank. A prayer on folio 190r, referring to the user as “miserrimam peccatricem” (“most wretched sinner”), indicates a female reader—possibly Blanche of Castile herself. She is depicted on folio 122v in a resplendent historiated initial, kneeling in prayer before an altar. The image provides not only a visual splendour, but also a deeply personal spiritual insight into the manuscript’s intended purpose.

Limited Facsimile Edition with Historical Fidelity

This exceptional facsimile edition is encased in a refined wooden presentation box and accompanied by a faithful reproduction of the original textile binding. An optional portfolio containing three individual facsimile folios is also available. The edition is strictly limited to 600 numbered copies worldwide, offering connoisseurs of medieval illuminated manuscripts a rare opportunity to experience this royal treasure in all its splendour.

“The Royal Psalter of Sainte-Chapelle – a masterpiece of golden illumination, a beacon of Gothic devotion, and a jewel of royal manuscript heritage.”