Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Rouen or Orléans, last quarter of 15th century
MS G.4 fol. 49r

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Christ: Nativity -- Nude Christ Child reclines on white cloth amid rays. Joseph the Carpenter with crutch, wearing purse at waist, and Virgin Mary, both nimbed, with joined hands, looking down, kneel next to Him. Ox and ass are in background.
Miniature enclosed by gold frame decorated with pearls and precious stones.
Initial D, terminating in head of animal, encloses bird.
Bands of red and gold in margins decorated with floreate ornament including strawberry, and inhabited by bird, snail, peacock, fantastic animal and hybrid animal.