Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Speculum humanae salvationis
Germany, probably Nuremberg, between 1350 and 1400
MS M.140 fol. 12r

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Left column:
David: Water from Bethlehem -- David, crowned, name inscribed REX DAUID, is seated on throne (?) extending hands. He looks toward one of three soldiers holding flask containing red liquid. The other two also hold flasks. All wear helmets and armor with shields at left shoulders. Two foremost soldiers grasp with left hands hilts of swords worn at waists. Two shields are decorated with heraldic ornament.
Caption, TRES FORTES ATTUL(ER)UNT REGI DAUID AQ(UAM) D(E) CYST(ER)NA BETHLEEM, is inscribed above scene.
Right column:
Solomon: Throne -- Half-figure of crowned woman, possibly Virgin Mary, right hand on breast, on pedestal (?) supported by two hands. The pedestal surmounts five (?) steps, on which are 11 small lions, all flanked by two larger rampant lions. At bottom of steps, youthful man, hands extended, kneels looking up.
Caption, THRONUS SALOMONIS, is inscribed above scene.