Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Bible
England, perhaps Oxford, ca. 1265
MS G.42 fol. 167v

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Psalm 052 (Vulg,. 051).
David: playing before Saul -- Saul, crowned, right hand raised, holding floreate staff in left hand resting on left knee, and with legs crossed, is seated on bench, looking at youthful David, seated, plucking harp with left hand and possibly tuning with tool held in right hand. Drapery hangs behind David.
Scene on blue patterned background within initial Q decorated with extension containing foliate ornament and fantastic animal.
Psalm 053 (Vulg,. 052).
David, crowned, is seated on cushioned bench, holding scepter in right hand resting on right knee, and with left hand indicates fool, bald, nude, wearing mantle over shoulders, holding bread to right side of face with his right hand, and holding club in left hand.
Figures on pink patterned background within initial D decorated with short extensions foliate ornament.