Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
Italy, Florence, ca. 1495
M.305 fol. 240v

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Miniature:
Pentecost -- Virgin Mary, nimbed and veiled, kneels, flanked by 12 apostles, nimbed, kneeling, some looking up. Rays emanate from dove of Holy Ghost, crossed nimbus, hovering above; rays terminate in flames on head of each figure.
Background of apse decorated with architectural ornament.
Margins:
1) Medallion enclosing torch.
2) Medallion enclosing bust of apostle, nimbed, with flame on head, with joined hands raised, looking upward toward miniature.
3) Medallion enclosing back-turned bust of apostle, nimbed, with flame on head, orant. Medallion flanked and held by two putti.
Margins decorated with border of floreate ornament inhabited by winged putti heads; bust of female putto; camaïeu dove descending toward fish; putto holding bow; mask.