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IM-1398: (162x118mm) Original leaf from a medieval manuscript Book of Hours. Red ruled for 15 lines of Latin text on animal vellum. Written with dark brown ink, in fine gothic textura script, with rubrics in red. One illuminated three-line illuminated initial in mauve with white tracery on a burnished gold ground with a floral infill. One illuminated two-line initial; one illuminated one-line initial and one illuminated line extender in burnished gold on red and blue ground with delicate white tracery. The illumination was executed by a skilled artist working in the style of the Maitre Francois. 

France: probably Paris, c. 1450-70.

Ex-collection:  Endowment for Biblical Research, Boston University (Manuscript #11).

The miniature painting depicts the Pentecost.  Mary is shown seated with an open book in her lap. The Apostles surround her, and the Dove of the Holy Spirit hovers above her – radiating the flames of inspiration.

Elaborate panel border surrounds the miniature in a floral motif with acanthus leaves, a strawberry (symbol of perfect righteousness) and ivy in colors of blue, green, red, brushed gold and burnished gold.

The three-line “D” opens the Hours of the Holy Spirit – Hour of Matins: “Domine labia mea aperies…” (Lord, Thou shalt open my lips…).