John, Peter, Paul, James Miniatures - c 1518 Book of Hours Leaf

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Original leaf from a printed & hand-illuminated Book of Hours.  Twenty-eight lines of ruled Latin text, printed in red & black on animal vellum. (178 x 115mm – 7 x 4 ½’’) 

Four illuminated two-line initials & four illuminated one-line initials in gold alternating on a red-orange or deep blue ground.  Three nine-line miniature paintings of Saints John the Evangelist, Peter with Paul, and James the Greater.

Printed by Gilles Hardouyn & hand-painted in the workshop of Germain Hardouyn - brother of the printer & a highly skilled illuminator.  Paris (Use of Rome), c. 1518.

Noted for its DECORATIVE BORDERS - the paneled surrounds are historiated (containing identifiable scenes or figures) or inhabited forms.

This leaf is from the section of Suffrages - prayers to saints who were considered the protectors, helpers and guardians of medieval people.  

The miniature painting of St. John the Evangelist (patron saint of theologians) depicts him holding a chalice. The text begins: “Johannes…” (John the Apostle and Evangelist, a virgin, was chosen by the Lord & more belived than the others…).

The miniature painting of Sts. Peter & Paul depicts Peter (left) with key in left hand & book in right. Paul (right) holds sword in left hand and supports open book with right. Text begins: “Petrus…” (Peter the Apostle and Paul the Doctor to the Gentiles have themselves taught us thy law, O Lord…).

The miniature painting of St. James the Greater  depicts him with gold staff in left hand and right hand supporting open book. The text begins: “Lux et…” (Light and adornment of Spain, O most holy James, supporter of the oppressed…). 

Presented in an archival 14x11'' mat

  • Inventory# IM-11475
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