Adalolf

Adalolf was a minor figure in early medieval history, primarily known for his association with the Carolingian dynasty during the 8th century. His exact origins and lineage remain unclear, though he is sometimes linked to the Frankish aristocracy. Adalolf is most notably mentioned in the context of the reign of Charlemagne (r. 768–814), particularly in connection with the *Adalolf Psalter*, a lavishly illuminated manuscript produced in the Carolingian court.

The *Adalolf Psalter*, named after Adalolf, is one of the most significant surviving examples of Carolingian art and calligraphy. Created around 800, the manuscript features intricate illustrations, including a famous depiction of Charlemagne receiving the *Regula Pastoralis* from Pope Leo III. The psalter’s attribution to Adalolf may stem from a dedication inscription or a later tradition, though some scholars suggest he could have been a scribe, patron, or even a fictional figure used to honor the manuscript’s origins.

Little else is documented about Adalolf’s life or role in court affairs. His name appears in a few contemporary sources, but without further context, his significance remains limited to the cultural and artistic legacy of the Carolingian era. The *Adalolf Psalter* itself is housed in the Bibliothèque nationale de France in Paris and remains a key artifact for studying medieval manuscript production and the visual culture of the Carolingian Renaissance.