Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Rouen, ca. 1420-1425
MS M.105 fol. 46r

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Thomas ³l Becket: murdered before High Altar -- Thomas ³l Becket, nimbed, tonsured, wearing chasuble, bleeding from wounds in head and back, stands with joined hands raised before draped altar, upon which are two candlesticks with lighted candles, open book with pseudo-inscription, bishop's miter, and retable with image of the Virgin Mary and Christ Child. Two soldiers, wearing helmets and mail, attack Thomas, one striking Thomas' head with sword and the other piercing his back with spear. Two additional helmeted soldiers stand behind them. Beside Thomas stands Grim the Chaplain, tonsured, wearing deacon's vestments, wielding processional cross (cross-staff) in both hands (cross is held at 45 degree angle). Scene in church with groin vault and leaded-glass windows.
Margins with foliate and ivy-rinceaux ornament.