Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Bourges, ca. 1480
MS M.330 fol. 13r

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Christ: Pieta -- Christ, rays as crossed nimbus, bleeding from wounds, His head supported by Evangelist John, nimbed, reclines on lap of Virgin Mary, nimbed and veiled, with joined hands, looking down at Him. She is surrounded by four Holy Women, nimbed, three veiled, two with joined hands, one holding covered jar, probably Mary Magdalen. Tau cross, ladder leaning against cross bar, is in background. Scene in landscape with hills, buildings, many surrounded by trees, in distance. Text below miniature is beginning of prayer to the Virgin, Obsecro te.