Emanata

Emanata refer to marks or indications placed on the edges of a page to indicate a symbol's or figure's existence on the other side of the fold. Often found in medieval manuscripts, these marks serve as a reader or artist's aide, providing a visual indicator of what lies on the opposing page. Emanata might be simple notations, such as lines or crosses, or more elaborate drawings, and can be used to signal text, images, or musical notation.

In illuminated manuscripts, emanata were frequently used to connect a sequence of images or text across two or more pages. These marks allowed the reader to follow a narrative or understand the structure of a work without being disrupted by the page turn. The technique of using emanata enabled artists and scribes to craft books that appeared to unfold like a single, continuous scene.

Emanata are not exclusive to manuscripts; they can also be found in handwritten music and other artistically rendered documents. In these contexts, the markings can help a performer or reader navigate complex arrangements and details spanning multiple pages.

The specific purpose and use of emanata can vary depending on the context in which they appear. While some might be rudimentary and intended to guide the reader's flow, others may serve a more artistic or whimsical purpose. Nonetheless, these symbols offer insight into the practices and resources used by creators of historical documents, highlighting the importance of visual cues and spatial reasoning in the organization and presentation of information.

The study of emanata can provide a unique window into the methods and preferences of artists and writers across different periods and styles.