The Breslau Psalter

Underdrawing

Artists' Techniques

Underdrawing, probably drawn with a dry medium, can be detected in the infrared images of many folios, particularly to define drapery folds. It is especially apparent in the compositions painted by Hand A – most strikingly in Christ’s flowing robe on fol. 87v.

The position of the miniature’s outer frames was also sketched on the page prior to painting, as is apparent especially on fols. 49v and 51r.   

Illustrating the opening verse of Psalm 80, this initial painted by Hand F shows five musicians playing a variety of instruments: a string instrument, a trumpet and a drum above, a harp and a transverse flute below.