Officium Beatae Mariae Virginis of Benedetto XIV

Some of the finest examples of 15th century illumination can be found in small, personalized manuscripts made for the wealthy and sophisticated. This specimen, owned by Pope Benedict XIV (1675-1758), was created at the end of the 15th century by an anonymous but highly skilled Flemish master. The dreamlike miniatures feature figures in the foregrounds with a marked pictorial character and a masterful use of perspective in the architectural backgrounds and floral elements enclosed in lozenge-shaped frames are presented in the friezes. Gorgeous labors of the months are presented in the calendar section, which feature typical proverbs and sayings alongside the scenes of agriculture and rural life. Rich primary colors and the generous use of gold leaf round out the splendor of the Officium Beatae Mariae Virginis of Benedetto XIV.

The Prayerbook of a Pope-Scholar

Pope Benedict XIV is remembered as one of the greatest scholars to ascend the throne of St. Peter and patronized Baroque works of art and scientific research – particularly the study of human anatomy. Thomism was reinvigorated during his reign, and the Pope personally studied ancient literature, the human body, and published numerous theological and ecclesiastical treatises. Horace Walpole described him as, “loved by papists, esteemed by Protestants, a priest without insolence or interest, a prince without favorites, a pope without nepotism, an author without vanity, a man whom neither intellect nor power could corrupt.” As such, the fact that he would choose the manuscript at hand as a personal prayer book speaks to the sophistication of its artistry as well as a personal affinity for the liturgical texts that were so masterfully written by the scribe.