Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Paris, ca. 1500
MS H.5 fol. 1r

See more information »

Left margin:
1) In upper column of architectural frame, Stephen Protomartyr, tonsured, wearing deacon's vestments, holding palm in both hands, indicates text of calendar with right hand. Octave celebrated January 2.
2) In lower column of architectural frame, Apostle Paul, stands, holding sword in left hand, raising right hand indicating text of calendar. Feast of Conversion of St. Paul celebrated January 25.
Right margin:
1) Christ: Circumcision -- In upper vignette, Virgin Mary, nimbed, veiled, supports nude Christ Child, rays as nimbus, lying on draped table, being circumcised with knife by Mohel, nimbed. In backround stand three men, wearing hats. Scene in room with canopy (?) decorated with pseudo-inscription. Feast of Circumcision celebrated on January 1.
2) Genevieve of Paris: Scene, Candle lighted by Angel -- In center vignette, Genevieve of Paris, nimbed, holds open book in draped right hand. In her left hand, she holds candle flanked by devil with bellows and angel with taper. Scene in landscape setting. Feast celebrated January 3 (not in calendar).
3) Magi: Adoration -- In lower vignette, Virgin Mary, nimbed, veiled, seated, supports on her lap nude Christ Child, rays as nimbus, reaching into vessel held by eldest Magus, kneeling. Behind, two crowned Magi stand, one holding vessel in right hand. Scene in room with curtain. Feast of Epiphany celebrated January 6.
Lower margin:
1) Month, Occupation: January -- Woman, veiled, wearing hat, holds cup to her mouth, across draped table from man, wearing hat, holding plate in both hands (feasting). Pitcher on table. Scene in room.
2) Zodiac Sign: Aquarius -- Putto, standing in water, pours water from vessel. In landscape setting.
Miniatures within architectural frame.