This rather fascinating arrangement of early 17th century miniatures depicts thirty scenes from the life of Christ.
The origins of this collection are unknown but it’s likely that the miniatures either formed part of a larger manuscript or served as a picture book illustrating the ‘Vita Christi’. In the top left, we see the Annunciation, whereby the Archangel Gabriel announces to the Virgin Mary that she will conceive a son by the power of the Holy Spirit to be called Jesus. While in the bottom right, we’re given the Ascension of Jesus, where he ascends to Heaven after his resurrection.
Books of this nature were produced by medieval artisans and were particularly popular between the 14th and mid-16th century. Numerous versions still exist, which are usually painted with natural mineral colours on to animal skin (parchment or vellum). Museums tend to hold the finest examples, which were designed for the highest echelons of aristocracy, such as this from circa 1320, by the Florentine illuminator Pacino di Bonaguida (ca. 1280-1340) and his workshop. And this 16th-century adaptation, which originated in Lombardy, Italy.
Much like the ‘Books of Hours’, these tactile devotional works were often small enough to be transported and cradled in one’s hand - perhaps carried in a pouch or wrapped in cloth. They were important to the owner and handed down through the generations, sometimes used as teaching tools for children.
The miniatures are housed within a wooden frame, which appears to date to the 18th century - it’s an unusual design and certainly a one-off. It’s conceivable that they were saved from further damage by supporting them in wood, as the areas of wear are now stable. They’ve also been varnished, hence the discolouration.
For hundreds of years, this enchanting survivor was a cornerstone of family life. Today, although a little tired, it still exudes its unique and transcendental spirit - one of faith, love, suffering and hope.
Medium: Ink and pigment with gilt on paper
Overall size: 20” x 37½” / 51cm x 83cm
Year of creation: c. 1600
Provenance: Private collection, North West Germany / Art dealership, Germany / Private collection, UK
Condition: Old tears, discolouration, pigment losses (now stable), wormholes (treated).
Our reference: BRV2093
