Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Vitae patrum
Italy, Naples, between 1350 and 1375
MS M.626 fol. 93v

See more information »

1) Mary of Edessa: Scene, Temptation -- Within cross-surmounted cell, Mary of Edessa, seated on low platform, with right hand holding pen, writing on leaf with pseudo-inscriptions held on lap. Abraham of Edessa, scalloped nimbus, appearing as bust in arched window, lowering right hand toward her. Outside the cell, tonsured monk, wearing hooded monk’s habit, raising right forefinger to lips.
2) Mary of Edessa: Scene, abused by Monk -- At right, within bedroom with one window, tonsured monk, wearing hooded monk’s habit, kneeling over Mary of Edessa, laying supine on draped bed, her head on pillow.
Scenes in common landscape framed by two trees.
Illustration of Life of Abraham and Mary of Edessa.