Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, perhaps Langres, ca. 1485-1490
MS M.26 fol. 90r

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Christ: Nativity and Shepherds: Adoration -- Christ Child, nimbed, nude, lying amid rays on draped manger, is flanked by Virgin Mary, nimbed, kneeling, with joined hands, and by Joseph the Carpenter, kneeling on one knee, holding candle between fingers of left hand and shielding flame with right hand. Next to manger are ox and ass. Behind, two shepherds, one wearing hood, each holding staff, stand at window behind wattle wall. Above manger, rays emerge from roof of shed, extending to Christ Child, and two angels hover, both holding scroll with pseudo-inscription. Scene within roofed shed with holes in wall.
Miniature within arched frame supported by columns and architectural elements.
Margins decorated with floreate and foliate ornament, including large branches, and inhabited by bird and hybrid animals.