Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Paris, ca. 1515
MS M.286 fol. 38v

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Magi: Adoration -- Eldest Magus, hat with crown on ground next to him, extending hands, kneels before and looks toward nude Christ Child, nimbed, standing on right thigh of Virgin Mary, nimbed and veiled, held with both of her hands. Joseph the Carpenter, nimbed, stands behind them. Two remaining Magi, crowned, one holding gold chalice or footed cup and the other holding gold ball (?) stand beside third Magus. All figures wear garments in grisaille. Rays descend from star above. Head of ass visible in background.
Scene before open shed with thatched (?) roof.
Miniature enclosed in architectural frame decorated with sculptural ornament, foliage, and shield (?) inscribed with face.