Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
Italy, 1450-1475
MS M.56 fol. 36r

See more information »

Virgin Mary: Visitation -- Maidservant, wearing kerchief, carrying three baskets, stands behind Virgin Mary, nimbed, veiled, grasping hands of Elizabeth, nimbed, veiled, kneeling on ground. In background is building, with rod from which hangs towel; to right beneath arch is Zacharias, with rays as nimbus, seated with open book in his lap, with right hand gesturing to woman standing beside him. Scene within initial D decorated with foliate ornament.
Margins decorated with floreate ornament, including viola, thistle, columbine, dianthus, and rose. In lower margin amid flowers is vase with greenery.