Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Vita Christi (Life of Christ)
France, perhaps Corbie, ca. 1175
MS M.44 fol. 3r

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Christ: Flight into Egypt -- Nimbed angel, swinging censer, descends toward Joseph the Carpenter, wearing cap, with staff in his left hand.
In his right hand, he holds bridle of ass on which Virgin Mary, nimbed, veiled, rides sideways in saddle, holding Christ Child, cross-nimbed, seated on her lap, raising His right hand toward Joseph and turning His head toward the Virgin.
At left, youth, possibly James, Son of Joseph, carries cask suspended from staff in his left hand and scourge (goad) in right hand. Three trees. Scene beneath architectural frame, against gold background, within decorated frame.