Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Mark.
Bologna, Italy, ca. 1270
MS G.38.II, fol. 194r

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In upper register of initial I, below trefoil arch, Mark, nimbed, writing with pen in right hand on scroll held with left hand, is seated on cushioned bench. Below, winged Evangelist Symbol (lion), pearled nimbus, is seated upright, holding scroll with front paws. In bottom register, grotesque man, nude, body partially draped, foliage emerging from mouth, straddles sword held with both hands.
In center margin, grotesque wearing hat, partial body draped, only eye (?) visible, as terminus of decorated vertical bar.
In lower margin, decorated foliate vine inhabited by nude man holding club with raised right hand, spear and shield at left side, two birds, and hybrid man.