In Focus: The Making of the Early Codex and the Crafts of Late Antiquity Boudalis

This course, preparatory for the exhibition opening in fall 2017, focuses on the technical and stylistic relations between the making of the codex—the hand written and bound book in the format we know today—and different crafts of late antiquity, with the aim of establishing the codex’s technological sources and origin. We will first look at the different techniques and processes used until the tenth century to gather written leaves into a functional book, including their connection to the production of such mundane items as socks, shoes, textiles, and basketry. We will then examine the structural and decorative features of early bookbindings. Participants will help search for and select objects and images for the exhibition; help develop interactive digital and/or tactile components for visitors; and, last but not least, produce models of codices that will be included in the exhibition in order to help visitors understand their material, technical, and functional aspects. Although manual or craft skills are welcomed, this is not obligatory as all models and samples will be made under the supervision of the instructor. 3 credits.