ABSTRACT
The Book of Kells is unique among surviving illuminated Insular gospel books in its multiple depictions of eucharistic symbols, notably vine-scrolls and chalices, which are often shown accompanied by peacocks. Such images were derived from the Christian art of the Mediterranean world of Late Antiquity, but were visually transformed and theologically revitalised when they were assimilated into the Book of Kells, c. 800. 1
