Book of Hours from the Workshop of Birago, Lombardy, c.1490

We are delighted to note the recent placement of a sumptuous Book of Hours in a U.S. library collection. Produced in Italy, almost certainly Brescia in Lombardy, c. 1490, this manuscript reflects the richness of late Quattrocento devotional art.

The volume comprises 183 leaves (wants four), written in Latin for the Use of Rome, and adorned with a sophisticated programme of illumination. Decoration includes thirteen historiated initials painted in vibrant colours and gold, often with acanthus sprays, flowers, putti, birds, and whimsical details such as a pink rabbit. A striking frontispiece frames the text with gilded architecture, jewel motifs, and crowned putti, while borders sparkle with bezants and penwork ornament.

The manuscript is bound in an early sixteenth-century red morocco binding, gilt-tooled with stars, flowers, and swirling foliage around a central medallion—likely once depicting the Virgin and Child. Despite light signs of devotional use, it remains in good overall condition, with its original clasps preserved.

This Book of Hours exemplifies the devotional, artistic, and material splendour of Renaissance Lombardy, combining exquisite illumination with a fine contemporary binding.