The manuscript presents four organ depictions of summary execution but of remarkable interest for their antiquity. The first two images show portable organs suspended from the branches of a willow, in reference to Psalm CXXXVII (super flumina Babylonis). Each instrument is furnished with approximately 7 pipes held by an oblique bar; the keyboard sliders are visible, while the bellows cannot be distinguished. The other two depictions show larger positive organs, with a flat wind chest, visible manual and approximately 10 pipes supported by an oblique bar. The ventilation system consists of primitive wineskin-shaped bellows, on which in one case two seated operators appear, according to a method recalling models of Byzantine tradition.
The ensemble, though stylistically rough, documents an early typological differentiation between the portative and the positive.
The Stuttgart Psalter
© 2026 Zeutschel GmbH, Tübingen | Bildrechte: Württembergische Landesbibliothek
Date:
820-830 ca.
Location:
Württembergische Landesbibliothek, Stuttgart, Germany
Author:
Anonymous (Carolingian illuminator, Saint-Germain-des-Prés Abbey)
Technique and materials:
Pen and ink miniatures on parchment
Dimensions:
Two portative organs of approx. 60 cm in height
Provenance:
Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris
Sources:
