Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Breviary
Italy, probably Taranto, 1350-1400
MS M.200 fol. 339v

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Virgin Mary: Death -- In upper register of initial F, two angels, nimbed, one with joined hands, the other with hands crossed on breast, flank Christ, nimbed, beardless, holding with draped left hand, nimbed, swaddled personification of soul of Virgin Mary. In lower register, Virgin Mary, nimbed and veiled, with head on pillow, hands crossed on abdomen, reclines on draped bed; five apostles, nimbed, one only nimbus visible, others possibly including Peter extending his hands to her, and Evangelist John, are next to the bed. Initial decorated with foliate ornament extending downward to lower margin, expanding into sprays of leaves and flowers. Text is collect in first Vespers on 8.15, feast of Assumption of Virgin Mary. Jerome as half-figure, wearing hat of cardinal, holding open book with both hands, within initial C decorated with foliate ornament. Text is first lesson in first nocturn for Matins on 8.15, feast of Assumption of Virgin Mary.