69 Lovely and unusually large illuminated leaf from a 15thcentury French Book of Hours, featuring a striking miniature depicting the flight of Joseph, Mary and Jesus into Egypt, four lines of text from the Hours of Terce, a three-line initial, and thick borders of flowers, berries, buds, and acanthus leaves. This miniature—with its vibrant color and elegant composition—is in a style similar to that of the Master of Morgan 293. Stylistically, this leaf can be traced to the Franche-Comté region of eastern France. It appears closely related to an atelier specialized in Books of Hours made for the Use of Besançon and is most likely situated in that city. The similarities are apparent in the faces with their squinting, puffy eyes, a unique feature. As noted by Avril and Reynaud, the unnamed master of this atelier was deeply indebted to the Master of Morgan 293, an acclaimed Burgundian illuminator who was active in the second quarter of the 15th century. That name—Master of Morgan—derives from a particularly lovely Book of Hours made for the Use of Besançon. There are a number of compositional similarities between this leaf and the corresponding miniature in the Morgan manuscript. Lower right corner of leaf repaired with vellum, just touching image; a few very tiny smudges. About-fine condition, a beautiful illuminated leaf. 89(ILLUMINATED LEAF). Illuminated Leaf from a Book of Hours. Probably Besancon, France, circa 1460. Single vellum leaf (6-1/2 by 9-1/4 inches); matted and window framed, entire piece measures 12 by 15 inches. $18,500 “Make Haste, O God, To Deliver Me”
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDg3OTM=