Illuminated Manuscript: Leaf with Miniature of Saint Barnabas
STUNNING FULL-PAGE MINIATURE OF SAINT BARNABAS FROM A 15TH-CENTURY BOOK OF HOURS.
The full-page miniature on vellum, with fine detail and rich color, depicts the prophet dressed in a blue robe with a gold cape, (presumably) in the act of preaching with (as he is usually shown) a book cradled in his left hand. He stands before columns and arches revealing a mountainous landscape and blue sky in the distance. The image is framed by gold pillars and with “Sancte Barnaba” written in gold on a blue background in the base.
Saint Barnabas, “son of consolation... stands first on the list of prophets and teachers of the church at Antioch” (Easton’s Bible Dictionary).
The reverse, with one large two-line decorated initial, contains the end of the text dedicated to Saint Matthias, with the heading for Saint Barnabas.
Judging from the style, the leaf appears to be from a French Book of Hours, c.1480. Beautifully matted and framed under UV-protecting museum glass. Leaf size: 4.25x5.75 in (108x148mm); framed: 11.25x13.25 in. “Sancte Barnaba” at the base partially obscured by smudge; a few very minor spots of soiling. A beautiful, colorful leaf with sharp detail in outstanding condition.
Price: $3,500 .