The Four Gospels

A full-page illuminated miniature in the Byzantine iconographic style depicting the Nativity of Christ. The scene is set against a brilliant gold leaf background. In the center of the composition, a jagged, dark-colored rocky mountain contains a cave. Inside the cave, the infant Jesus lies swaddled in a stone manger, flanked by an ox and an ass. Beneath the manger, the Virgin Mary reclines on a long, red, mattress-like bed, dressed in a dark blue robe. Surrounding the central mountain are several smaller scenes: the upper section shows a dark blue arc representing the heavens sending down a single ray of light representing the Star of Bethlehem, with five angels looking on in adoration. The middle left depicts the three Magi, wearing crowns and carrying vessels containing gifts, approaching the cave. The middle right shows a shepherd standing on the side of the mountain, looking toward the Nativity. The lower left shows two women, the midwives Salome and Zelomi, bathing the newborn Jesus in a basin. The lower right shows Saint Joseph sitting in a pensive, melancholic pose, resting his head on his hand. The miniature is enclosed by a thin red border with stylized leaf designs at the corners. Greek inscriptions in red ink identify the scene and the primary figure.