Skies of Parchment, Seas of Ink

by Marc Michael Epstein
Skies of Parchment, Seas of Ink cover
Good Books rating 4.6
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  • ID: 7640
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2025-12-16
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Waterstones · 2025-12-16
groundbreaking 4.50

The book provides an in-depth look at the art and history of Jewish illuminated manuscripts. It is a significant contribution to the field and a must-read for scholars.

This book is a groundbreaking survey of Jewish illuminated manuscripts, spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. The authors have done an extraordinary job of compiling and presenting this information, making it accessible yet detailed. The book is not just a collection of images but a well-researched and thoughtfully presented history. It's a bit dense for casual reading, but for those with a serious interest in the subject, it's an invaluable resource. The authors' passion for the topic shines through, making the book both informative and inspiring. The only minor criticism is that some sections could benefit from more visual aids to break up the text.

Quick quotes

    Skies of Parchment, Seas of Ink offers the first full survey of Jewish illuminated manuscripts.

    Ranging from their origins in the Middle Ages to the present day.

    A significant contribution to the field and a must-read for scholars.

Open Library · 2019-07-19
fantastic 4.70

The book is a visual and intellectual feast, showcasing the beauty and significance of Jewish manuscripts. It is a must-have for any collection.

This book is a stunning exploration of Jewish illuminated manuscripts, combining beautiful imagery with insightful commentary. The authors have clearly put a lot of effort into making this a comprehensive and visually appealing work. The book is not just about the art but also about the cultural and historical context, making it a well-rounded resource. It's a bit pricey, but the quality of the content and the illustrations justify the cost. The only downside is that some of the older manuscripts might be a bit hard to decipher for those not familiar with the script. Overall, it's a fantastic addition to any library, whether personal or academic.

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    Magnificently illustrated with pages from hundreds of manuscripts.

    Many previously unpublished or rarely seen.

    A visual and intellectual feast, showcasing the beauty and significance of Jewish manuscripts.

Goodreads · 2015-04-04
magnificent 4.60

The book is beautifully illustrated and offers a comprehensive survey of Jewish illuminated manuscripts. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history and art of Jewish manuscripts.

This book is a treasure trove for those fascinated by the rich history of Jewish manuscripts. The illustrations are stunning, and the text provides a detailed and engaging overview of the evolution of these manuscripts over centuries. It's clear that a lot of research and passion went into creating this work. The depth of knowledge shared makes it an essential read for historians, art enthusiasts, and anyone with an appreciation for cultural heritage. The only downside is that some of the technical details might be overwhelming for casual readers, but overall, it's a magnificent piece of scholarship.

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    A superbly illustrated history of five centuries of Jewish manuscripts.

    The love of books in the Jewish tradition extends back over many centuries.

    Magnificently illustrated with pages from hundreds of manuscripts, many previously unpublished or rarely seen.

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