Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Vita S. Benedicti
Italy, perhaps in Padua, ca. 1450
MS M.184 fol. 18v

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Benedict of Montecassino: Scene, persecuted by Devil -- Horned and winged devil, nude, with tail and claw feet, raises right hand toward Benedict of Montecassino, nimbed, wearing hooded monk’s habit, seated on bench, with his hands crossed on book in his lap, accompanied by three monks, wearing hooded habits, one raising right hand and one pulling rope to which basket is attached, on pulley above hexagonal well. Scene in room of monastery with wooden ceiling and arches; at right landscape with trees and bushes. Miniature within frame for end of Chapter 8 of Book II of Dialogues; Devil presents himself to Benedict of Montecassino.