Final answer:
Rubrication is the practice of highlighting text in red ink, commonly used in historical manuscripts like the Bible to emphasize certain text, such as the words of Jesus.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term “rubricate” refers to the practice of “highlighting” or decorating manuscript text in red ink. Historically, this practice was often used in religious manuscripts, such as in the Bible, to emphasize certain sections of text, for example, the words of Jesus. The process of rubrication was part of the larger art of manuscript illumination, which often included the use of other precious materials like gold leaf and lapis lazuli to create visually stunning works of art that reflected the wealth and status of the manuscript's owner.
The evidence for rubrication is seen in historical documents such as the Gutenberg Bible, where the black text was printed with a printing press, and then the red decorations were added by hand. This added to the visual and aesthetic appeal of the manuscript, emphasizing important passages and making the document not only a religious text but also a work of art.