The Christological Character of Illuminations in Byzantine Old Testament Manuscripts

The present study aims to explore the Christological interpretation of the Old Testament through the illustrations found in Byzantine biblical manuscripts, particularly those specific to the Byzantine Octateuch. The illustrations in the Octateuch continue the earlier Byzantine iconographic tradition, highlighting the Christological significance while appropriately employing typology without overusing symbols. For the Byzantines, typology was the most effective method for showcasing the Christological nature of the entire Old Testament, a perspective that can also be examined through the illustrated Octateuch.