Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Missal
France, Tours, ca. 1500
M.495 fol. 85v

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Christ: Crucifixion, at Cross -- In center of miniature, Christ, nimbed with crown of thorns, bleeding from wounds, wearing loincloth, is seated on rock, arms bound and crossed on lap. On one side of the rock purple garment is on ground; on the other side tau cross is lying on ground, man using auger to drill hole for nail. Behind him hammer is on ground. In background two crosses stand upright flanking hole for third. Thief, arms and hands bound, stands before each cross with soldier, one holding spear. Other soldiers stand nearby, three holding spears, one wearing shield on right shoulder. Road encircles scene from bottom left to top right. On the road are Virgin Mary, nimbed and veiled, head bowed, hands clasped, surrounded by three holy women and Evangelist John, all nimbed, two supporting Virgin Mary; two archers carrying crossbows on right shoulders, wearing swords or scimitars at waists; four soldiers carrying spears; several horsemen, only five horses visible, most facing area of crucifixions.
Miniature within architectural frame with two panels below decorated foliate ornament and animal head or mask with horns flanking medallion enclosing cross on background decorated with vinescroll. Margin beyond frame painted black.