Manesse Codex
Type:
Illuminated manuscripts
Date:
First half of the fourteenth century
Location or Findspot (Modern-Day Country):
Switzerland
Medium:
Parchment
Dimensions:
35.5 × 25 cm
Description:
This manuscript from the first half of the fourteenth century brings together nearly 6000 love songs and poems written in Middle High German between the mid-twelfth and the late thirteenth century. The work of compiling the texts is attributed to Rüdiger Manesse of Zurich and his son (from whom the manuscript takes its name). The works of 137 troubadours, or singers of love songs, are paired with full-page illustrations that serve as author portraits.
The men of various ranks engage in falconry and knightly jousts, attempt to win the affections of women, and sit thoughtfully with scrolls in their hands, among other courtly activities. One plays a game of chess against a young woman (a motif that also appears carved into ivory mirror backs). The images are full of heraldry, lavish attire, animals, and symbolism related to love and sexual conquest. One of the authors is identified as "Süßkind, der Jude von Trimberg" (Süsskind, the Jew of Trimberg), the earliest identification of a Jewish poet of the German language.
The men of various ranks engage in falconry and knightly jousts, attempt to win the affections of women, and sit thoughtfully with scrolls in their hands, among other courtly activities. One plays a game of chess against a young woman (a motif that also appears carved into ivory mirror backs). The images are full of heraldry, lavish attire, animals, and symbolism related to love and sexual conquest. One of the authors is identified as "Süßkind, der Jude von Trimberg" (Süsskind, the Jew of Trimberg), the earliest identification of a Jewish poet of the German language.
Relevant Textbook Chapter(s):
9
Repository and Online Resources:
• Look through the Manesse Codex on the website of the Heidelberg University Library.
Image Credits:
Universität Heidelberg
