Manuscript Illumination with the Presentation in the Temple in an Initial S, from a Gradual

1450–60
Not on view
As required by Jewish law, the Virgin Mary and Joseph took the infant Jesus to the temple to consecrate him to God. The Virgin hands the swaddled Child to Simeon, who recognizes his divinity. The Prophetess Anna, dressed in red, holds a pair of doves that served as offerings. The illuminator represented the temple with classicizing architectural elements such as the shell-shaped apse, or semicircular niche, above their heads.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Manuscript Illumination with the Presentation in the Temple in an Initial S, from a Gradual
  • Artist: Attributed to Cosmè Tura (Cosimo di Domenico di Bonaventura) (Italian, Ferrara ca. 1433–1495 Ferrara)
  • Date: 1450–60
  • Geography: Made in Ferrara, Italy
  • Culture: Italian
  • Medium: Tempera, ink, and gold on parchment
  • Dimensions: Overall: 11 1/4 x 13 9/16 in. (28.5 x 34.4 cm)
    Illumination: 7 1/16 x 6 1/2 in. (18 x 16.5 cm)
    Mat size: 16 x 21 15/16 in. (40.6 x 55.7 cm)
  • Classification: Manuscripts and Illuminations
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1911
  • Object Number: 11.50.4
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

Audio

Cover Image for 2853. Initial S with the Presentation in the Temple

2853. Initial S with the Presentation in the Temple

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