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Initial S: The Virgin and Child

Unknownabout 1300

The J. Paul Getty Museum

The J. Paul Getty Museum
Los Angeles, United States

An image of the Madonna and Child occupies the initial S that opens the prayer Sancta et perpetua virgo (Holy and perpetual virgin). The Virgin Mary, crowned and holding a scepter, balances the Christ Child on her hip as he reaches up with his right hand to touch her cheek. The image thus presents the Virgin both as the Queen of Heaven and as the human mother of the infant Jesus.

A knight in splendid armor kneeling at the bottom of the letter's extender offers a model of piety for the book's reader. The whimsy of the juggling monkey above the letter contrasts with the seriousness of the knight's prayer below.

Details

  • Title: Initial S: The Virgin and Child
  • Creator: Unknown
  • Date Created: about 1300
  • Location Created: Northeastern France, France
  • Physical Dimensions: Leaf: 26.4 × 18.3 cm (10 3/8 × 7 3/16 in.)
  • Type: Folio
  • External Link: Find out more about this object on the Museum website.
  • Medium: Tempera colors, gold leaf, and ink on parchment
  • Terms of Use: Open Content
  • Number: 83.ML.99.52v
  • Culture: French
  • Credit Line: The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles, Ms. Ludwig IX 3, fol. 52v
  • Creator Display Name: Unknown
  • Classification: Manuscripts (Documents)

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