Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Bourges, ca. 1480
MS M.330 fol. 10v

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Matthew, nimbed, seated on bench, leans forward toward two-sided, slanted desk, with cross at peak. He is writing with right hand in open book on the desk, left hand resting on the book. Evangelist symbol (angel), with arms crossed on abdomen, stands at left opposite desk. In background is grisaille image of Virgin Mary, seated against wall holding Christ Child on lap. Magus kneels before them, extending chalice with left hand; the other two Magi stand behind him, each holding chalice. Joseph sits beside Mary, left hand to head or hat. (Magi: Adoration) Buildings are in distance beyond wall. Text below miniature is beginning of Gospel sequence of Matthew (Matthew 2:1, variant)