Book of Hours of Louis de Orléans

Books of hours were probably the most popular book genre of the Middle Ages. The codices were made for prayer and private devotion and were especially widespread among the nobility. The Book of Hours of Louis de Orléans is a spectacular example of these popular manuscripts. The illuminated manuscript is adorned with 90 elegant miniatures in elaborately patterned frames. Today the valuable original edition of the book of hours is found in the Russian National Library in St. Petersburg.

A Manuscript of the King of France

The lavish prayer book was decorated by a French master, Jean Colombe, and the staff of his studio. The artists were guided by the work of the painter Jean Bourdichons, one of the most influential French illuminators of the Middle Ages. The work originates from the year 1490. It was signed by Louis, Duke of Orléans, of the house of Valois. In 1498, Louis was crowned King Louis XII of France (1462–1515). Next to the signature at the beginning of the manuscript is a portrait of Louis indicating him as the owner of the manuscript. Louis XII was a great lover and patron of the arts. One of France’s most outstanding illuminated manuscripts originates from his commission.

Extraordinary Illumination

In a small format of 21 by 14.7 cm, the manuscript is especially appealing due to its exceptional book decoration. The sophisticated pictorial conception of the work is truly unusual for a book of hours. The pages of the work are adorned with splendid floral decoration and the 90 miniatures show series of various biblical motifs. The decorative bordures display, along with floral decoration, images of birds, exotic animals, and fantastical monsters. Parts are traversed with aphorisms, which capture the themes of the prayers and miniatures.