Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Hamilton lectionary
Constantinople, end of 11th century
MS M.639 fol. 280r

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1) Christ: Deposition -- Evangelist John, nimbed, hands draped, beside cross before which are Joseph of Arimathea on ladder, and Virgin Mary, nimbed, veiled, both supporting body of Christ, nimbed, long loin cloth, hands detached from cross; below, Nicodemus kneeling, detaching with pincers one of the two nails in His feet; above, two nimbed angels descending.
2) Christ: Bewailing -- In foreground, body of Christ, nimbed, long loin cloth, lying on shroud before entrance of tomb, Virgin Mary, nimbed, veiled, kneeling at His head, two veiled Holy Women prostrate at His feet; title inscription.
Miniature within frame with finial cornerpieces.
In right column, decorated initial Tau.
Illustration for the reading of John 19:38-42 for Good Friday.