Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
Belgium, Bruges, ca. 1470
MS H.7 fol. 58v

See more information »

Christ: Nativity -- Half figure of God, cross-nimbed, is flanked by two angels, within rayed arc of heaven, from which descends Dove of Holy Ghost on rays toward Christ Child (Trinity), cross nimbed, rayed, nude, reclining on Virgin Mary's garment. Christ Child is flanked by Virgin Mary, nimbed, kneeling with joined hands, and Joseph the Carpenter kneeling on one knee, extending candle in left hand. Behind, male figure kneels with joined hands, and ox and ass stand beneath roof of shed.
In background, shepherd amid flock stands on hill, raising right hand toward the God and angels, and with left hand holding pedum or staff.
Scene in landscape setting.
Margins decorated with floreate border inhabited by bird and by monkey in hat, playing psaltery.