Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Apocalypse
England and France, London, between 1255 and 1260
MS M.524 fol. 3r

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1) Apocalypse: Seal V, Souls of Martyrs -- Hand of God, emerging from above, holds inscribed scroll beside John, pearled nimbus, bearded, holding staff and book in draped left hand. With his right hand, he indicates draped altar, inscribed ALTARE DEI, under which are half figures of nimbed angel, orant, beneath arch, and four nude souls, inscribed ANIME INTERFECTORUM, with joined hands raised. Two angels, pearled nimbi, clothe two nude souls with robes. One kneeling soul holds garment. Three stars in cloud-edged arc of heaven above the altar.
Illustration of Revelation 6:9-11.
2) Apocalypse: Seal VI, Earthquake -- Hand of God, emerging from above, holds inscribed scroll beside John, name inscribed S. IOH(ANNE)S, pearled nimbus, bearded, holds staff in right hand and raises his left hand. He turns, looking toward cloud-edged arc of heaven in which are crescent moon, sun, and four red stars. Red stars fall toward earth. Buildings and trees topple to earth, inscribed T(ER)RE MOTUS MAGNUS, enveloping eight nude figures, some clasping hands. One raises right hand to face, and holds scroll, inscribed MONTES CADITE SUPER NOS ET ABSCONDITE NOS A FACIE SEDENTIS IN THRONO based on Revelation 6:16.
Illustration of Revelation 6:12-17.
Explanatory inscriptions of text and commentary.
Framed illustrations.