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IM-4207: (160x115 mm) Original leaf from a manuscript Book of Hours. 23 lines of red-ruled Latin text on animal vellum; letter bâtarde script, with rubrics in red; line endings in red & blue, with liquid gold infill. One three-line initial in blue & white on liquid gold ground with floral infill; eight one-line initials in gold alternating red & blue grounds; Elaborate panel border (verso) in acanthus & diverse floral motifs in colors & liquid gold. (See Walters W.224 for similar style). The leaf contains two exceptional miniature paintings in the style of the Playfair Hours. France, Rouen (Use of Rouen): c. 1480-90.

The largest miniature painting shows King David praying for forgiveness. David, wrapped in rich robes lined with royal ermine, kneels on the ground, his harp, wrapped in its protective case, is on the ground at his side. David’s hands are clasped in prayer, his head turned up towards God in heaven, seeking his forgiveness for his affair with Bathsheba and for sending Uriah to his death.  Next to David stands the Prophet Nathan – sent to chastise David and relay to him God’s chosen punishment.

The skilled artist has also included a bas-de-page depiction of David & Goliath.  A young David is depicted slaying Goliath – the military triumph that represents the dramatic beginning of David’s career. This leaf open the 1^st Penitential Psalm – Psalm 6.