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The Last Judgment, from a Book of Hours, ca. 1400
French (Paris)
Tempera and gold on vellum; 3 3/4 x 2 1/2 in. (9.5 x 6.3 cm)
Gift of Max Falk, in honor of William D. Wixom, 1998 (1998.179)

Description

This miniature from a Book of Hours illustrated a section of special prayers in French known as the "sept requêtes à nostre Seigneur" (seven requests of our Lord). With its tessellated ground of red, blue, and gold, its figures set in a shallow landscape, and the preciousness of its execution, the miniature typifies Parisian manuscript painting of about 1400. Two angels herald the Last Judgment, while Christ, seated on a rainbow, extends his hands toward the dead. People from all walks of life—men, women, a crowned king, and a pope—emerge from their earthly tombs and raise their hands to him in supplication. Imploring Christ on their behalf are the Virgin, one breast bared, and Saint John the Baptist(?), posed at left and right.

(Entry written by Barbara Drake Boehm)

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