Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Missal
Italy, Rome, ca. 1483
MS M. 306 fol. 119r

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Miniature:
Scene, Liturgical: Celebration of Mass -- Four clerics in vestments, including one holding triple-crowned tiara, kneel behind pope (possibly Sixtus IV or Innocent VIII), wearing vestments. He kneels before steps to draped altar, with open book, at which priest elevates host. Two acolytes stand behind priest. Figure in vestments kneels, back turned, at altar to right of priest.
Scene occurs within interior of church, in which is draped cathedra. Group of male figures (only heads visible) look over curtain separating them from clergy.
Architectural frame:
Architectural frame of classical design, decorated with foliate and candelabrum forms, encloses miniature and text. Putti inhabit spaces of frame.
In lower border of frame, two putti, holding garlands with one hand, support arms, surmounted by cardinal's hat, of Cardinal della Rovere.