Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Rouen, ca. 1470
MS M.1093 fol. 13r

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Miniature in four compartments in two registers:
1) Evangelist, John: Scene, on Patmos -- John, nimbed, seated on small island beside eagle (Evangelist Symbol), writes with pen on scroll with pseudo-inscription held in his lap. Scene in landscape with sea and distant towers.
2) Evangelist Matthew, nimbed, seated on throne-like chair with brocade back, with pen held in right hand writes on book with pseudo-inscription on writing desk. Beside the desk kneels angel (Evangelist Symbol), holding inkpot and stylus case in right hand. Scene in room with brocade wall hanging and leaded-glass arched windows.
3) Evangelist Mark, nimbed, turning to look at pen held in right hand, sits at writing desk with sheet with pseudo-inscription. Beside the desk stands lion (Evangelist symbol). Scene in room with brocade wall hanging and leaded-glass windows.
4) Evangelist Luke, nimbed, wearing hat, sits at writing desk, possibly holding pen in right hand. Beside the desk lays ox. Scene in same room as Evangelist Mark, separated by column.
Margins with foliate ornament with medallion and two lozenges enclosing foliate ornament. Margins inhabited by fantastic animal, dog (?), and peacock.