Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, perhaps Langres, ca. 1485-1490
MS M.26 fol. 16r

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Evangelist, John: Scene, on Patmos -- On island with rocky outcrop, Evangelist symbol (eagle), wings spread, stands next to Evangelist John, nimbed, seated, with right hand writes in open book held with left hand on his lap. Pen case is on ground between them. Above, bust of God, nimbed, appears in arc of heaven ringed with heads and wings of red angels. In background, ship and small boats, and across water, walled harbor with city and castle in mountains in distance.
Miniature in arched frame supported by two columns.
Margins decorated with floreate and foliate ornament, including large branches, strawberry, dianthus, and thistle, and inhabited by bird, fly, hybrid man with face on abdomen, and dog wearing collar.