Kroppacher

Kroppacher refers to a type of medieval European manuscript page decoration. This style of decorative art is named after the Austrian abbey of Kremsmünster's Kroppach annex where several examples of it can be found. The Kroppacher style emerged in the late 11th century and flourished until approximately the first half of the 12th century.

The Kroppacher style is characterized by the use of looping foliage motifs with tendrils, cups, and birds. These motifs are intricately intertwined to create a sense of continuous movement and vitality. The decorations typically begin at the bottom left of the page and wind their way up and around bundles of lines or other motifs.

Kroppacher images were used primarily in Austrian annals, as well as illuminated Divine Office manuscripts and Gospel books. These details lend credence to the theory that the style's origin lies in the region. scholars believe that Kroppacher is derived from earlier Byzantine and Carolingian models. Earlier ideas have been particularly influential, as seen in the arborescent and trumpet forms used throughout Kroppacher design.

Over time, Kroppacher decoration evolved to include a range of new motifs such as tiny beasts, fruits, and knots. Kroppacher illustration retained its ornamental character even as the themes and symbolisms contained therein drew richer connections to Christology throughout the Christian tradition.