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Gallnut:
A swelling that forms on the bark of an oak tree due to the presence of insect larvae, mites, or fungi. Tannic and gallic acids contained in gallnuts can be soaked in water to produce ink. Gall can also be used in tanning processes.
Gathering:
Gathering is the term used for the folded booklets from which a manuscript textblock is constructed. See quire.
Gilding:
The application of gold to a surface. Gold was often applied to medieval illumination in the form of gold leaf. The gold leaf was laid down on an area to which a binding medium had been applied. Gilding was the first stage in the painting process.
Gloss:
A word, commentary, or translation related to the main text. Glosses were written in the margins or between the main text.
Good Friday:
The Friday before Easter, on which the crucifixion of Jesus is emphasized in the Christian Church.
Gothic:
A term used to describe a period of art that began in the late twelfth century and ended between c. 1300 and the early sixteenth century, based on the region. The underlying characteristics of Gothic art include an interest in exaggerated forms, including grotesque and zoomorphic beasts; and a decorative approach to initials, frames, and backgrounds. The use of bright colors and gilding was especially important in manuscript decoration.
Grotesque:
A hybrid figure, often combining elements from various human and animal forms. Grotesques often carry symbolic meaning that would have been understood by the medieval reader. They were popular in thirteenth century Gothic art, especially bordering text.
Ground:
A writing or painting surface, which has been prepared. A ground can also act as the base for metallic pigment.
Gutter:
The place where the writing material is folded to meet the spine.