Throughout history, the color purple has carried a kind of magic. Rare, rich, and deeply symbolic, it has long been associated with royalty, religion, and reverence. In art and manuscripts, purple’s presence wasn’t just decorative—it was meaningful.
Let’s take a closer look at how purple captured the imagination of empires, artists, and spiritual traditions throughout the centuries.
Purple in the Roman Empire: A Color of Power
In ancient Rome, purple was a statement.
Wearing it wasn’t just a fashion choice, but a sign of imperial status. Roman emperors reserved purple dye for themselves, and laws were even passed to prevent others from wearing it. This color quite literally set them apart.
Purple garments signaled authority, wealth, and power, and the symbolism stuck. Even long after the fall of Rome, purple would continue to carry this association with prestige and elevated rank.
A Sacred Color in Christianity
Over time, purple took on deep spiritual meaning as well—especially in Christianity.
It became the color of penance, humility, and reflection, particularly during the season of Lent. Used in vestments and church banners, purple reminded worshippers of the suffering of Christ and the solemnity of the path toward Easter.
So while emperors wore it to stand above others, Christians used it to bow low. That contrast gives purple a uniquely layered symbolism, both majestic and meditative.
A Radiant Manuscript: The Codex Purpureus Petropolitanus
One of the most extraordinary uses of purple in manuscript history is the Codex Purpureus Petropolitanus, a Greek manuscript of the Gospels from the 6th century.
What makes it so remarkable? It was written in gold and silver ink on purple-dyed parchment.
Yes, actual gold and silver on a background of royal purple.
This manuscript was likely produced in or near Antioch, and its creation would have been incredibly expensive and time-consuming. It stands as a testament not only to the importance of the Gospels, but also to the power of color to elevate the sacred.
Image: Fragment from the Codex Purpureus Petropolitanus, Antioch, 2nd half of the 6th century: Cotton MS Titus C XV, f. 3r
Purple's Revival in the Middle Ages
The legacy of purple didn’t end in late antiquity.
During the Middle Ages, scribes and artists were deeply inspired by early manuscripts like the Codex Purpureus. In religious texts, royal commissions, and books meant for high-ranking patrons, purple once again made an appearance.
Sometimes the entire page was tinted, other times just borders or initials were colored in purple to add a sense of reverence and honor to the text. Its rarity still carried weight, and its beauty still captured the imagination.
Why Purple Still Captivates
Today, purple continues to evoke a sense of depth and richness. It reminds us of royalty and sacredness, but also of creativity, wisdom, and mystery.
At Modern Medieval Press, I find myself returning again and again to these kinds of stories, the way color, art, and symbol were used not just for decoration, but for meaning.
Creating work that echoes those traditions helps me feel more connected to the past... and I hope it invites others to feel the same.
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