Theophanu, Abbess of Essen

Theophanu, granddaughter of the Greek princess Theophanu and Ottonian Emperor Otto II, ruled the convent of Essen from 1039 until her death in 1058. During her abbacy, Theophanu was responsible for a number of artistic and architectural commissions, including the renovation of the Münster church's west end to reflect the design of the famous octagonal Aachen Chapel. She donated several lavish illuminated manuscripts, including the Theophanu Gospels (Essen Inv. 7) and at least two processional crosses.

Theophanu, Abbess of Essen

Theophanu, granddaughter of the Greek princess Theophanu and Ottonian Emperor Otto II, ruled the convent of Essen from 1039 until her death in 1058. During her abbacy, Theophanu was responsible for a number of artistic and architectural commissions, including the renovation of the Münster church's west end to reflect the design of the famous octagonal Aachen Chapel. She donated several lavish illuminated manuscripts, including the Theophanu Gospels (Essen Inv. 7) and at least two processional crosses.