Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Paris, ca. 1500
MS H.5 fol. 84v

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Upper register:
Christ: Baptism -- In cloud-edged arc of heaven, God, wearing triple-crowned tiara, raises right hand in blessing and holds globe sumounted by cross. He is surrounded by camaïeu angels (only heads and wings visible). Below him is dove of Holy Ghost, emitting rays toward nude Christ, nimbed, hands crossed and raised, standing in river.
Christ is flanked by Baptist John, nimbed, wearing skins, with left hand extended and right hand holding bowl, and by angel, holding garment.
Scene in landscape setting, with buildings on hills in distance.
Lower register:
Pentecost -- Dove of Holy Ghost, rayed, emits flames above Virgin Mary, nimbed and veiled, with joined hands raised and open book in her lap.
She is surrounded by nine Apostles, nimbed, four with joined hands raised. The tops of four (?) more nimbuses are in background.
Miniatures within architectural frame with statues of male figures in niches of columns of upper registers.
Inscription on frame between registers reads, DOMINE LABIA MEA APERIES. In bases of columns inscription reads, VENI SANCT(E) SPIRIT(US)