Lot 74
Europe, Franco-Flemish, ca. 15th century CE. In a word, wow! A stunning illuminated manuscript hand painted on vellum, depicting the Annunciation on one side, with text on the verso. The artist has elegantly captured this moment when the angel Gabriel told Mary, "You shall conceive and bear a son, and you shall give him the name Jesus." The painting is so fine and descriptive, one can almost hear Gabriel's surprising announcement. Gabriel kneels before the Virgin who sits in a prayerful gesture; Gabriel places his right hand over his heart, holds a sceptor in his left, while gazing at the Virgin Mary as rays of light project from his glorious wings, perhaps symbolizing the dove of the holy spirit. Both are framed within a lovely architectural setting of classical arches and columns. Did I mention how finely painted this piece is? Even so, it bears repeating, and just marvel at those jewel-tone hues! Brilliant! Size: illuminated manuscript itself measures 4-1/2" x 3-1/4" (11.4 x 8.3 cm); framed 10" L x 9" W (25.4 cm x 22.9 cm).
Illumination was a complicated and costly process reserved for sacred books such as the bible as well as Books of Hours made in monasteries. According to Robert G. Calkins who wrote "Stages of Execution: Procedures of Illumination as Revealed in an Unfinished Book of Hours," (International Center of Medieval Art 17:1 (1978): 61-70), the text was written first, on vellum or parchment cut to the appropriate size. The pre-production preparation took much time. First, a silverpoint drawing of the design was executed. Burnished gold dots were next applied followed by the application of modulating colors. The previous three steps were repeated in addition to the outlining of marginal figures. Next, the penning of a rinceaux appearing in the border of a page, and finally, the marginal figures were painted. Beyond this was the preparation of pigments, and as you can see, the medieval artist's palette was quite extensive. This process demanded so many steps and layers of technique and artistry!
Provenance: Ex- Estate of M. Reiniger, Chicago, IL
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#111499
- Condition: A section that is in excellent overall condition.
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