The Nativity of Christ from an illuminated manuscript book of hours produced in Rouen around 1470 (ms38938).
The Book of Hours was a prayer book for the laity that developed in late medieval Europe and that was used for private devotion. This one is illuminated with miniature paintings depicting Biblical scenes such as the Annunciation, Nativity, Adoration of the Magi, the Flight into Egypt and Crucifixion. Illuminated borders feature flowers and foliage and strange monsters which combine human and animal forms.
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Beautiful! Thanks so much for all these advent calendar posts, I’ve really enjoyed all of them. It’s been many years since I visited your wonderful library. I’ll be in St Andrews next autumn and perhaps you’ll give this former Special Collections librarian a tour of your department; that would be lovely. Thanks again and Merry Christmas.
I’m not sure whether my comment on this post or previous comments have been received or accepted.
Hi there, your comments have been received and we greatly appreciate your feedback on the advent calendar. We are glad to hear that you have enjoyed it!
If you would like to visit us when you visit St Andrews later in the year, please get in touch with us at [email protected].
Thanks!