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Epistolary with book cover depicting the Stoning of Saint Stephen

1st third of the 14th century (Epistolary: c. 980)

Silver, gilded; glass stones; velvet on wooden frame

Bischöfliches Dom- und Diözesanmuseum Mainz, Inv.-Nr. B 00259

The book cover depicts the stoning focused on three figures: the stone-thrower with his arm raised high, Stephen sinking to the ground, and Paul turning away. The scene emphasizes that Paul was an important actor in the stoning. The Acts of the Apostles remains vague about Paul's actual influence on the death. It mentions only his consent.

The Acts of the Apostles records that Paul was still young at the time of the stoning. Accordingly, he is depicted on the book cover as a beardless young man. He holds in his hands the garments that the stone-throwers had left in his care. Is he speaking to someone outside the scene? What might he be intending to say?

Epistolary with book cover depicting the Stoning of Saint Stephen, Mainz, first third of the 14th century (Epistolary: c. 980), Episcopal Cathedral and Diocesan Museum Mainz, Inv. No. B 00259, © Episcopal Cathedral and Diocesan Museum (Photo: Marcel Schawe)
Epistolary with book cover depicting the Stoning of Saint Stephen, Mainz, first third of the 14th century (Epistolary: c. 980), Episcopal Cathedral and Diocesan Museum Mainz, Inv. No. B 00259, © Episcopal Cathedral and Diocesan Museum (Photo: Marcel Schawe)