Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Paris, ca. 1460
MS M.282 fol. 13r

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Evangelist, John: Scene, on Patmos -- John, nimbed, sits on ground and with pen in right hand writes on scroll across his lap inscribed IN PRINCIPIO ERAT UERBUM ... (NT, John 01:01). Beside him stands eagle (Evangelist Symbol), holding stylus case and inkpot in its beak. Above, tiny winged devil descends through air towards John. In background is landscape with hills, trees, and four ships on distant sea. Rays emanate from top of arch.
Margins with ivy-rinceaux ornament, inhabited by eagle (Evangelist Symbol ?) and winged hybrid man, wearing armor and helmet with lowered visor, and holding spear in right hand.