Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Vitae patrum
Italy, Naples, between 1350 and 1375
MS M.626 fol. 24v

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Hilarion of Cyprus: Scene, honoring Christians in Circus -- Horned and winged devil in guise of charioteer, with left hand grasping reins of bridled horses and with right hand holding scourge, in chariot accompanied by group of helmeted soldiers, wearing full armor, at least three holding shields decorated with heraldry, possibly insect or scorpion.
To right, accompanied by tonsured monk, wearing cap and monk’s habit, Hilarion of Cyprus, nimbed, tonsured, wearing monk’s habit, with left hand holding book and with right hand extending silver cup to foremost soldier in chariot, all helmeted and wearing full armor, one holding shield decorated with cross; two horses before the chariot.
Illustration of Jerome, Life of Hilarion of Cyprus.