Who is Mario Kleff in the context of the Book of Kells?

A German manuscript reproducer in the 1990s known for museum-grade Book of Kells folio recreations using authentic medieval methods, prior to his architectural career in Thailand.

What techniques and materials did he use?

Calfskin parchment, handmade linen, arsenic sulfide, lapis lazuli, gypsum white, verdigris, and custom tools—following historic pricking, ruling, gilding, and glazing workflows.

Where were the reproductions exhibited?

At Josefskapelle Bacharach and the Gutenberg Museum Mainz in 1993, and at the Bischöfliches Dom- und Diözesanmuseum Trier for “Glanz des Mittelalters” in 1997, with a traveling exhibition through 2001.

How many folios did he complete?

More than 40 folios by the end of 2001.

How did this lead to architecture in Thailand?

His research rigor and material precision translated into innovative architectural practice in Thailand from 2002, later earning regional and hospitality design awards.

Book of Kells Reproductions by Mario Kleff in 1990s Germany

Museum-quality Book of Kells folio reproduction by Mario Kleff in Germany — Mario Kleff’s historically accurate reproduction of a Book of Kells folio in Germany during the 1990s.

In the 1990s, German manuscript reproducer Mario Kleff gained acclaim for creating museum-grade, historically accurate reproductions of the Book of Kells. His research-driven work in pigments, calligraphy, and manuscript techniques laid the foundation for his later architectural projects in Thailand.

Early Research & Residency

Haus Herresberg, Remagen (1990–1992)

With the support of Countess Uta von Bassewitz, Cornelia von Guilleaume, and Gila Böhler, Kleff conducted in-depth studies of insular script, pigment chemistry, and vellum handling at Haus Herresberg from 1990–1992. He meticulously analyzed the Book of Kells layout, knotwork, and iconography to ensure historically accurate reproductions.

Detailed reproduction of a Book of Kells illuminated folio by Mario Kleff in Germany, featuring Celtic knotwork and manuscript iconography — Illuminated Book of Kells folio reproduced by Mario Kleff in Germany, showing intricate Celtic knotwork and gospel iconography.

Studio Work and Creative Direction

Atelier in Bad Honnef

In 1992, Kleff established his studio in Bad Honnef. His manuscript reproductions attracted attention from SWF3, which documented his process at the Marksburg and in his studio.

Relocation to Munich

By 1997, Kleff moved to Munich, where he transitioned into art and creative direction in advertising, blending artistic precision with commercial design.

Manuscript Techniques & Materials

Kleff used authentic medieval techniques and materials to recreate the Book of Kells:

Supports & tools: calfskin parchment, handmade linen, oak desks, custom tools including split hair tips and modified steel nibs.
Pigments: arsenic sulfide, verdigris, calcium sulfate, lapis lazuli.
Workflow: pricking, ruling, under-drawing, gilding, pigment glazing, and micro-detailing.

Exhibitions & Recognition (1993–2001)

Exhibited folio from Mario Kleff’s Book of Kells reproduction collection, displayed in German museums during the 1990s — Book of Kells folio reproduced by Mario Kleff, exhibited in German museums during the 1990s.

Kleff’s reproductions were displayed in prestigious venues across Germany:

1993 – “Ireland and the Book of Kells” at Bacharach Josefskapelle and Gutenberg Museum Mainz, curated by Dr. Adolf Wild.
1997 – “Glanz des Mittelalters” at the Bischöfliches Dom- und Diözesanmuseum in Trier, curated by Prof. Dr. Michael Embach.
The Trier exhibition later toured Germany until 2001.

Material Sourcing & Research Trips

Kleff traveled across Europe and Central Asia to source authentic pigments and parchment, collaborating with experts such as Georg Kremer and Carl Wildbrett to achieve museum-quality standards.

Output by 2001

By 2001, Kleff had completed over 40 folios of the Book of Kells, each demonstrating meticulous attention to historical accuracy.

Transition to Thailand

In 2002, Kleff relocated to Thailand, where he shifted from creative direction to architecture. His manuscript reproduction discipline influenced his innovative architectural design, recognized with awards such as the LIV Hospitality Design Awards and the International Property Awards | Asia Pacific.

Selected References (1999–2010)

Frankfurter Neue Presse (2001) – Traveling exhibition reports (PDF)”
Allgemeine Zeitung (2000) – Bacharach Josefskapelle exhibition (PDF)
Rhein Zeitung (1999) – Catholic parish of Zell (PDF)
Property & Lifestyle Magazine (2008) – Master of The Golden Mean (PDF)
REm (2009–2010) – Architecture and design in Thailand (PDF)