Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Bible
Belgium, possibly Tournai, ca. 1270
MS G.64 fol. 5r

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Jerome, nimbed and tonsured, wearing monk's habit, is seated on chair, feet on footstool, holding scraper with left hand, and pen in right hand, writing on scroll on desk, on which is inkpot. Scroll is inscribed with cross, followed by (D)ESIDERII. Above Jerome are three tri-lobed arches and roof with chimney pots (?).
Scene against gold background within initial D partly formed by fantastic animal and decorated with two serpents, two birds, and foliate ornament.
Beginning of Jerome's preface to the Pentateuch.