Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Bible
Northeastern France, during last quarter of the 13th century
MS M.969 fol. 346v

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Beginning of I Maccabees.
Mattathias: slaying Jew -- In upper compartment of decorated initial E, Mattathias, wearing pointed hat, in right hand holds sword with which he transfixes man, wearing pointed hat, kneeling on draped altar. In lower compartment of decorated initial E are two soldiers, wearing armor and pointed hats, behind Mattathias, holding sword in right hand, raised to strike soldier, wearing armor, kneeling on ground.
In left margin is group of soldiers, wearing armor and pointed helmets. One holds spear. They stand upon fantastic animal. Below them is mounted soldier, wearing armor, holding sword and shield, decorated with dragon. At bottom of margin is soldier, waering armor, holding spear and shield decorated with eagle. Sword at his waist.
In lower margin is bird.