Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Lectionary
Austria, Salzburg, ca. 1050
MS G.44 fol. 2v

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Christ: Nativity, and Christ Child: Bathing, and Shepherds: Annunciation -- In architectural setting, ass and ox recline behind bed on which Virgin Mary, veiled, decorated nimbus, is reclining, with head resting on right hand. She lowers her left hand toward veiled midwife, kneeling and grasping Christ Child, cross-projecting nimbus, nude, seated in tub, beside Joseph the Carpenter, decorated nimbus, with left hand raised to face, seated on chair.
Above are half figures of three nimbed angels wearing fillets, two with right hands raised, and one with globe in left hand, extending right hand toward two shepherds wearing Phrygian caps. One has horn suspended by strap over left shoulder, with left hand holding leash attached to collar of dog. Two pairs of goats butt with horns entwined, beside tree.
Illustration for Gospel reading of Matthew 1:18-21 for Vigil of Christmas.