Miniature from The Miracles of Our Lady

Lieven van Lathem; Jean Miélot

about 1460

Tempera colors and gold paint, Tempera Colors, Gold paint

J. Paul Getty Museum

A group of people in medieval dress are gathered in a city square, with some entering a stone building. Another group is inside the building, with one person praying at an altar. This miniature originally appeared in a manuscript expressly created for Philip the Good, the duke of Burgundy that consists of a compilation of accounts of the miracles of the Virgin Mary. Philip was a highly successful political leader of his day as well as an important and influential patron of manuscript illumination. The witty scene illustrates a noblewoman's endeavor to deal with her husband's Christian mistress. In the chapel at right, the wife of the adulterous knight prays for the Virgin Mary to avenge her by punishing the mistress. However, Mary refuses the request on account of the adulteress's deep devotion to her. Subse