Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Piccolomini breviary
Italy, Lombardy, ca. 1475
MS M.799 fol. 238v

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Bust of Ambrose of Milan, nimbed wearing miter and cope, holding crozier with right hand, book with left hand, within initial D decorated with foliate ornament.
At top and bottom of left margin, medallion enclosing seated deer, surrounded by gold balls and flowers. Medallions linked by red band decorated with armor, including helmets and shields; plaque inscribed VINCIHEMI (?); hanging basin or lamp; and two cornucopias.
Beginning of collect for first Vespers, 12.07, feast of Ambrose of Milan.
Pen-flourished initials.