Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Piccolomini breviary
Italy, Lombardy, ca. 1475
MS M.799 fol. 270v

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Bust of Evangelist John or prophet, holding scroll with right hand, within initial D decorated with foliate ornament.
In upper margin, camaieu head of king, crowned, amid gold balls and flowers.
At top of left margin, medallion enclosing bust of youthful man, possibly Evangelist John. Medallion in lower left margin enclosing lion. Both medallions surrounded by gold balls, next to ornament of flowers and gold balls. Band linking the medallions decorated with pieces of armor, including helmets and shields, and with drum.
Text is collect for first Vespers on 05.06, feast of Evangelist John before Latin Gate.
Pen-flourished initials.