Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Speculum humanae salvationis
Germany, probably Nuremberg, between 1350 and 1400
MS M.140 fol. 5r

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Left column:
Adam and Eve: at Labor -- Adam, name inscribed ADAM, raises mattock with both hands. At right below inscription EUA CU(M) PUERIS, Eve sits on ground holding distaff and spindle, with nude youth on lap, her body turned toward second nude youth sitting on ground.
Right column:
Noah: in Ark -- Below inscription ARCHA NOE, ark as small building with crenellated parapet, and arched windows floats in water. On roof is black bird holding scroll in mouth and leafy branch in claw, and white bird holding branch in beak. Head, possibly Noah is visible in opening in roof.