Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Rouen, ca. 1500
MS M.151 fol. 42r

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Christ: Flight into Egypt, Miracle of Cornfield -- Joseph the Carpenter, holding bundle on rod over right shoulder, with left hold reins of ass, ridden sideways by Virgin Mary, nimbed, veiled, holding swaddled infant Christ Child, with crossed rayed nimbus. Behind the ass walks veiled woman, possibly maidservant, balancing basket on her head with right hand and carrying second basket in left hand. In background, helmeted soldier with spear gestures to farmer, wearing hat, holding sickle in right hand, both standing beside cornfield. Beyond are trees and distant city. Rays emanate from top of frame. Miniature enclosed in architectural frame and flanked by spiral columns.