Masters of the Gold Scrolls (active 1415-1455)
ST CATHERINE, miniature from a Book of Hours [Bruges c. 1440]
The Saint is shown as a regally clad princess, holding the sword of her eventual martyrdom and standing on her persecutor, the Emperor Maxentius, and on the broken execution wheel which was miraculously destroyed before she was harmed. The miniature originally illustrated a prayer to St Catherine in a Book of Hours; a second miniature from the prayers to saints in the same manuscript is offered as Lot 23. Further miniatures from this Book of Hours were catalogued by Sotheby’s, 19 June 1979, lots 10 (the Last Judgement with a note on the frame giving a provenance from the Binkley Collection, Denver Art Museum) and 11 (St Anthony Abbot).

The style is that of the Masters of the Gold Scrolls, named from the decorative backgrounds seen in this miniature and frequently found in their work; the rectangular shape for a miniature above text is less usual. Active in Bruges c. 1415-1455, the Masters are distinguished by their effective style, with its appealing colours and clear shapes. Their work was much in demand: it is found in books made not only for the Flemish market but also for export, particularly to England.

Provenance:
•Private collection, London.

111 x 99 mm. Vellum, trimmed leaving a little of the border, large illuminated initial and rubric; the text on the verso written in a Gothic bookhand is largely concealed by backing paper; mounted on card 330 x 250 mm.

Please note this lot is the property of a private consignor.

Please note this lot is the property of a consumer. See H1 of the Conditions of Sale.