Jonicus, the First Astronomer, from World Chronicle (text in German), Regensburg, Bavaria, about 1400-1410, artist unknown; author, Rudolf von Ems. The J. Paul Getty Museum Jonicus, the First Astronomer, from World Chronicle (text in German), Regensburg, Bavaria, about 1400-1410, artist unknown; author, Rudolf von Ems. The J. Paul Getty Museum

The cosmos—full of shining stars and orbiting planets—inspired study and devotion among scientists, theologians, and artists alike during the Middle Ages. The belief in angels, demons, and spirits was also translated into lavish works of art, especially on the pages of illuminated manuscripts. This exhibition invites you to explore the complexity of the celestial realm in medieval European faith and science traditions, and to marvel at the wondrous cosmos.

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Learn more about how people in Medieval Europe used the church calendar to mark time.

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