Jane Morgan
The Deer’s Cry: An Excerpt
Leather covers with inset fused glass; handmade paper text block sewn on leather straps which also serve as toggles and ties; hand calligraphy, decoration; collage, gouache, acrylic, prismacolour, gold and metal leaf, acrylic medium transfers, and wheat paste.
14.7 x 13.2 cm
Text in book:
The Deer's Cry: An Excerpt (From 8th Century Ireland)
I arise today
Through the strength of heaven
Light of sun
Radiance of moon
Splendor of fire
Speed of lightning
Swiftness of wind
Depth of sea
Stability of earth
Firmness of rock.
The original Latin text of The Deer's Cry was translated into English by the Celtic scholar, Kuno Meyer.
Artist's Statement:This literary fragment from Ireland’s 8th century – half a magic spell and half a prayer – evokes for me the rich tradition of ancient Irish scriptoriums and binderies. This little book is just that – a rough, new world “art book” evocation, a tribute to the old world manuscripts and codices produced in Ireland, the place from which some of my ancestors emigrated.
I have been told that glass was often used, alongside gem stones, to decorate codex covers because glass was virtually as precious as gems – hence the fused glass cover decoration on this book.
Jane Morgan has worked for most of her life in the visual arts field, including employment as a commercial artist, art therapist, and teacher. She has exhibited in solo and group shows. Her first foray into the traditional world of books was borne of a wish to make her own books to fill with her own artwork. This project has provided her further opportunity to explore and integrate these passions.
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