Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Bourges, ca. 1473
MS M.677 fol. 19r

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Christ: Crucifixion -- Christ, rays as nimbus, crown of thorns on head, eyes closed, wearing loincloth, is affixed with three nails to cross. He is flanked by two thieves, in loin cloths, with hands and feet bound to tau-crosses.
Below, at left, Virgin Mary, veiled, with joined hands raised, Evangelist John, and Holy Women (one fully visible; only nimbi and heads of two other Holy Women are visible) look up toward the Christ. All figures are nimbed. At right, mounted Centurion, wearing armor, and another horseman look up toward Christ. Crowd of soldiers carrying spears, some with banners, fill background. At base of the cross are two skulls and bones.