Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Gradual
Italy, ca. 1260-1270
MS M.933 fol. 38r

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Magi: Adoration -- In upper register of initial E, Virgin Mary, nimbed and veiled, is seated on cushioned bench before cloth of honor, flanked by two arched openings. She holds on her lap Christ Child, crossed nimbus, extending His right hand in blessing toward foremost of three Magi, extending gold disk or vessel with both hands. Crown is next to him. The other two Magi, crowned, gesture with right hands, and hold similar vessels with left hands. Star is above, center.
Christ: Baptism -- In lower register of initial E, John Baptist, nimbed, standing on rocky bank, extends right hand to crossed nimbus of Christ, raising right hand in blessing, standing neck deep in water. Dove of Holy Ghost descends to His head. At right two angels, nimbed, extend draped hands. At far left, three men stand looking toward each other, one gesturing with left hand.