Of the imagery depicted in the Book of Kells, there are some interesting symbolic representations that were adopted from the Book of Revelation, to represent the four Evangelists. They are known as the four beasts of Ezekiel and are depicted as follows:

The Lion – St. Mark – St. Mark is represented by this symbol due to the emphasis on Christ’s power and loyalty in the Gospel according to Mark.

The Eagle – St. John – St. John is represented by this symbol due to the belief that St. John, the Evangelist soared into Heaven and was able to “gaze upon the light of immutable truth with keen and undazzled eyes.”

The Ox – St. Luke – St. Luke is represented by this symbol due to the emphasis of Christ’s sacrifice in the Gospel according to Luke.

Man – St. Matthew – St. Matthew is represented by this symbol due to the emphasis of Christ’s humanity in the Gospel according to Matthew. (1)

The Book of Kells was intended to be more than just another manuscript of the Bible. To the Monks who created it, it was an homage to Christ and His message. The delicate care with which the carpet pages (2) were created is a testament to the passion and devotion of the artist.

(1) Ben Mackworth-Praed, The Book of Kells,
Studio Editions, Ltd., London, England, UK, 1993, pages 16-17. 14.

(2) Carpet Pages – pages of ornamentation typically placed at the beginning of each of the four Gospels in Gospel Books.