Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Paris, ca. 1440
M.303 fol. 13r

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Virgin Mary: Annunciation -- Gabriel, nimbed, holding with both hands scroll inscribed AUE GRACIA PLENA D(OMI)N(U)S, kneels on one knee and looks toward Virgin Mary, nimbed, head turned back toward Gabriel, kneeling at draped prie-dieu on which is open book. Lily stem in vase is between Gabriel and Mary. Dove of Holy Ghost descends toward Mary on rays emitted by bust of God, crossed nimbus, visible above left.
Interior scene in vaulted space with arcade and windows.
Margins decorated with border of floreate ornament including strawberry, viola, daisy, cornflower, and dianthus growing from pot, and inhabited by birds, including cock and hen, and parrot, and butterflies.