Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Prayer book
Italy, Milan, ca. 1430
MS M.944 fol. 6v

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Magi: Adoration -- Below roof of shed, Virgin Mary, nimbed and veiled, is seated holding with right arm on her lap, Christ Child, cross nimbus, wearing diaphanous gold garment, raising right hand, looking toward eldest Magus, kneeling, grasping with left hand, right foot of Christ Child, bringing it to his lips. He holds crown with right hand. The other two Magi, crowned, each holding covered vessel with right hands are next to him. Joseph the Carpenter, nimbed, wearing hat, holding covered vessel with right hand is seated next to Virgin Mary. Behind them stand two (twin?) maidservants wearing headdresses. Star is above roof of shed.
In background men, possibly astride bridled horses, one holding leash attached to collar worn by small leopard; one horse looking up toward the star; other men wearing headgear or hat, one possibly holding hooded falcon; heads of two camels visible.
Margins decorated with border of floreate ornament. In upper margin, scene title OBLATIO TRIUM MAGORU(M).
Beginning of prayer on the feast of the Ephiphany, Janurary 6.