The Middle Ages in colour

Some of them were created more than 1,000 years ago, and yet the palette of colours used by the artists arguably remains as bright and colourful as when they were first painted.

The British Library is showcasing its treasure trove of illuminated manuscripts collected by the kings and queens of England between the 9th and 16th Centuries - from King Athelstan to Henry VIII. Take a look with lead curator Scot McKendrick.

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Royal Manuscripts: The Genius of Illumination can be seen at the British Library, London, until 13 March 2012.

All images copyright British Library/British Library Board. Music courtesy KPM Music.

Slideshow production by Paul Kerley. Publication date 11 November 2011.

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Royal Manuscripts at the British Library

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