Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Paris, early 16th century
MS M.1114 fol. 20v

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Christ: Nativity -- Nude Christ Child reclines amid rays on edge of mantle of Virgin Mary, nimbed, arms crossed on breast, kneeling at His feet. Joseph the Carpenter, nimbed, right hand on breast, holding candle with left hand, kneels next to Christ Child. He is flanked by ox and ass; rays descend to Him from above.
Exterior scene with partially ruined, highly ornamented building with hole in roof.
Margins decorated with border of floreate ornament including columbine and daisy, and inhabited by fantastic animal and butterfly.