Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, ca. 1430
MS M.64 fol. 15r

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Evangelist Matthew, with decorated nimbus, holding quill in raised right hand, resting left hand on scroll with pseudo-inscription, held by Evangelist symbol, nimbed, (angel), wearing stole crossed on chest. Matthew is seated on chair, at desk on which is inkpot with attached lid and stylus case. Scene below canopied architectural frame, with three crosses surmounting roof, supported by two columns on which are two statues in niches, and atop which are two nude figures blowing horns, held with one hand. Third statue in niche on pendant.
Lower margin within circle of foliage:
Evangelist, Matthew: Dragons killing People -- Evangelist Matthew, nimbed, arms raised, looking toward two men (dragons), hands raised, emitting tongues of fire. Four people lie on ground at their feet. Scene in hilly landscape.
Right margin, within circle of foliage, in narrative sequence (bottom to top):
1) Evangelist, Matthew: Taming of Dragons -- Two men (dragons) lying on ground are flanked by four men, standing, one with left hand raised, and by Evangelist Matthew, nimbed, right arm raised. Scene in landscape with trees and buildings in background.
2) Evangelist, Matthew: preaching -- Evangelist Matthew, nimbed, left hand raised, stands in pulpit surrounded by crowd, some sitting, some with one hand raised. Scene in hilly landscape with buildings in background.
Margins decorated with border of foliate and floreate ornament, including strawberry.