Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
France, Rouen, 1525
MS M.61 fol. 49r

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Christ: Nativity, and Shepherds: Adoration -- Amid ruins of classical buildings inhabited by putti, three shepherds with joined hands raised approach Joseph the Carpenter and Virgin Mary, veiled, both nimbed, kneeling with joined hands raised. They flank nude Christ Child, rays as nimbus, lying on mantle of the Virgin. At right child, possibly young John Baptist, seated on steps, gesturing towards the Christ Child.
In background, ox and ass bow with knees bent and heads down toward the Christ Child. Above, to left, star emits rays of light.
Frame:
Miniature within elaborate architectural frame inhabited by putti. Two putti hold scroll inscribed with incipit of Prime of Hours of the Virgin. In bottom frame, two putti pull another putto seated in cart.