Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Paris, ca. 1500
MS M.219 fol. 32r

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Virgin Mary, nimbed, crowned, with joined hands raised, in mandorla, emanating rays, stands on clouds supported by two angels (Queen of Heaven). Flanking the Virgin are four more angels; Catherine of Alexandria, nimbed, crowned, holding sword in right hand and martyr's palm in left hand, with spiked wheel beside her; and Barbara of Nicomedia, nimbed, crowned, holding tower in right hand and martyr's palm in left hand.
Miniature enclosed in architectural frame, with arch; pilasters, each with two niches enclosing figures of angels; and at bottom, three medallions enclosing: 1) two angels, one holding bowl; 2) two cherubs embracing; and 3) one cherub playing pipe.