Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
Belgium, perhaps in Mons, ca. 1450-1460
MS M.104 fol. 30r

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Virgin Mary: Annunciation -- Virgin Mary, nimbed, with arms crossed on her breast, kneels beneath canopy before prie-dieu, upon which is open book. Dove of Holy Ghost descends on rays toward her through open window. To right kneels Archangel Gabriel, holding scepter in left hand and in right hand scroll inscribed AVE GRATIA PLENA DOMINUS TECUM. In background are lilies in vase. Scene in building with hexagonal roof with lantern with onion-shaped dome surmounted by banner; vaults supported by two columns; dormer windows in pitched roof; patterned cloth hangings; and tile floor.
Margins with ivy-rinceaux, vinescroll, and floreate ornament. Baguettes with interlace patterns in left, lower, and right margins. In lower margin are peacock, with tail fanned, and fantastic animal, with knotted tail and protruding tongue.