Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Book of Hours
Spain, perhaps Burgos or Segovia, 1465-1480
MS M.854 fol. 85v

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Shepherds: Annunciation -- Three shepherds stand in pasture; one plays bagpipe and looks upward; the second holds staff and looks upward; and the third, wears hat and has staff beneath his mantle, amid sheep and beside dog, laying on ground and chewing a bone. At upper right corner is angel, holding scroll in both hands. In background is landscape with trees; hills; city with cross-surmounted towers; figures on winding road, including one leading an ass; and three additional shepherds surrounded by sheep.
Miniature enclosed in frame inscribed ANGELUS AD PASTORES AIT ANUNCIO UOBIS GAUDIUM MA[G]NUM QUIA NATUS ESTE NOBIS HODIE SALUATOR MUNDI (sic).
Amid foliate ornament in margins are seven birds; peacock; and fox.
Miniature and ornament executed in grisaille and gold tones with color accents.