Description
Otto II–Registrum Gregorii–Offset Lithograph of 9th C.Manuscript–Early 20th History Print
Photomechanical offset lithograph reproducing thecelebrated Ottonian manuscript miniature of Otto II, shown enthroned inimperial regalia and surrounded by allegorical female figures representing theFour Nations. Otto II (955–983) was Holy Roman Emperor, King of Germany, andKing of the Franks, ruling as heir to the Carolingian and Ottonian imperialtradition. The imagery emphasizes his universal kingship and divine authority,key themes of early medieval imperial ideology.
The image is after the Registrum Gregorii , a late10th-century illuminated manuscript associated with the Ottonian court andpreserved at the Musée Condé, Chantilly. This plate was published as ascholarly illustration in Histoire de l’Art , Vol. I, Plate IX, byLibrairie Armand Colin, Paris.
The composition derives from a late 10th-century imperialminiature intended to present Otto II as ruler of a Christian empireencompassing multiple peoples and territories, including the Frankish realm.This example is an early 20th-century book plate produced using photomechanicaloffset lithography, incorporating a printed (false) plate mark, a commonfeature of academic art-history reproductions of the period. It is not amedieval original and not a hand-pulled engraving.
The impression is in good condition with minorage-related toning. No tears, stains, or restoration observed.
Print Details • Image Size: 6.5 × 4.5 in • Page Size: 10 × 6.75 in • Date: Circa 1900–1910 • Technique: Photomechanical offset lithograph (book plate) • Paper: Wove paper • Condition: Good – minor toning; printed plate mark; unframed
Inscriptions Printed title and captions in French, including: • “MINIATURE DU REGISTRUM GREGORII (Musée Condé, Chantilly)” • “OTHON II ENTOURÉ DES QUATRE NATIONS”
Disclaimer I have conducted thorough research to ensure the accuracy and authenticity ofthis piece to the best of my ability. However, it is sold as is, with noguarantees or warranties regarding its provenance or historical attribution.
