The Peterborough Psalter
Robert de Lindesey
Owners
Robert de Lindesey, Abbot of Peterborough (1214-1222), is probably the abbot depicted within the initial for Psalm 101, which begins ‘O Lord, hear my prayer’.
He owned another Psalter illuminated by the same main artist (London, Society of Antiquaries, MS 59). It is possible, however, that the Peterborough Psalter was commissioned by his successor, Alexander of Holderness, Abbot of Peterborough (1222-1226).
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Detail of the portrait of the abbot Robert de Lindesey under magnification (7.5x)
Historiated initial D with a 'portrait' of a Benedictine abbot (Psalm 101)
Accompanied by a monk, an abbot is shown in front of an altar on which a cross and a candlestick rest. He is probably to be identified as Robert de Lindesey, abbot of Peterborough (1214-1222).