Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Missal
Italy, Rome, ca. 1483
MS M. 306 fol. 42r

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Initial P:
Christ: Nativity -- Joseph the Carpenter, nimbed, holding staff, is seated next to ass, within wattled fence, and ox. Christ Child, nude, lies on ground between Joseph and Virgin Mary, nimbed, veiled, kneeling, hands folded across chest. Behind her is stable.
Scene occurs within initial P composed of entwined figures and putti.
Margins:
Foliate borders, including vine-scroll and candelabrum forms, frame text. Borders inhabited by putti and other figures.
In medallion in lower border, two angels flank tree (possibly arms of Cardinal della Rovere).