Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
Italy, possibly the Veneto, ca. 1425-1450
MS M.1089 fol. 17v

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Virgin Mary: Annunciation -- Archangel Gabriel, nimbed, wearing cross-inscribed (?) girdle, holding stalk of lilies with left hand, raising right hand, kneels on one knee facing Virgin Mary. Mary, nimbed and veiled, with hands crossed on breast, kneels at prie-dieu on which is open book. Behind her is room with arched openings and cupola, in which is draped bed. Dove of Holy Ghost, in mandorla, flies amid rays that descend to Mary.
Scene in walled garden with trees and hills, and possibly buildings, visible beyond the wall.
Margins decorated with border of floreate ornament.