Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Rouen, early 16th century
MS M.431 fol. 45v

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Christ: Nativity -- Virgin Mary, nimbed, kneels with joined hands looking toward Christ Child, nude, reclining on cloth in basket next to which sit ass and ox. Joseph the Carpenter, nimbed, stands behind her, orant. Looking over wall are three shepherds, wearing hats, each holding staff.
Scene in stable open to exterior, with hills in distance.
Margins decorated with floreate ornament, including thistle.