Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Vita S. Benedicti
Italy, perhaps in Padua, ca. 1450
MS M.184 fol. 8v

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1) Benedict of Montecassino: Scene, chosen Abbot -- Among group of ten tonsured monks, wearing habits, three cowled, the foremost two kneel and one extends sealed letter in right hand toward extended right hand of Benedict of Montecassino, nimbed, wearing surplice over hooded monk’s habit, standing before mouth of cave and holding book with left hand. Scene in hilly landscape with building, possibly church, in background; bushes and tree. Miniature, below: 2) Benedict of Montecassino: Scene, consecrated Abbot -- Among group of seveteen tonsured monks, six with joined hands raised, all wearing habits, kneeling, and look toward tonsured Benedict of Montecassino, nimbed, wearing monk’s habit, raising hands, seated on throne, holding open book with pseudo-inscriptions on lap, flanked by two tonsured monks, one extending miter and the other holding crozier. Scene in monastery interior with arched doorway, window and wooden ceiling. Miniature within frame for beginning of Chapter 3 of Book II of Dialogues; Benedict of Montecassino is chosen, consecrated and vested as Abbot.