An illuminated leaf from the Marlborough College Book of Hours showing the Annunciation of the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary within a decorative border of flowers, foliage, birds, and fabulous beasts.
Northern French, c.1480s; tempera and gold leaf on vellum.
The Marlborough College Book of Hours originates from Picardy in Northern France, and was once the personal prayer book of a member of the noble house of Nesle, hereditary Counts of Soissons. It was presented to the College in 1883 by Falconer Madan (C1 1864-70), who became Principal Librarian of the Bodleian Library, Oxford and lecturer in palaeography at Brasenose College.
Wishing you a Peaceful Christmas
Louise Moelwyn-Hughes The Master, Marlborough College