Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Hours of Henry VIII
France, Tours, ca. 1500
MS H.8 fol. 174r

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Miniature:
Evangelist, John: Death, Finding of the empty Grave -- Evangelist John, nimbed, walks into grave dug into floor of church beside draped altar with side curtains. Chalice, open book in chemise on pillow, and open container, possibly for pax, are on altar. Retable depicting Christ in Majesty(?) and saints is partially visible behind side curtain.
In background, group of figures look on, including one with joined hands raised to breast.
Margins:
Below miniature within historiated border framing text, seven-headed apocalyptic beast, one head crowned, stands on or near water. Evangelist John, nimbed, raising right hand in blessing, holding cup with serpents, stands on land, possibly Patmos.