The Virgin Appearing to a Dying Priest

1470s

German 15th Century (Augsburg)

Associated Names
The image shows a medieval illustration featuring several figures. In the foreground, a person is lying in a bed, covered with a white blanket. This person is shown from the waist up and appears to be looking towards a group of people standing by the bedside. Their facial features are detailed with wide eyes and hair falling to the side, wearing a white robe with a halo.

Next to the bed, four figures are standing, all dressed in flowing robes. One figure has a covered head, resembling a nun's habit, and another appears to be wearing a crown. These figures have serene faces, with hands raised as if in conversation or blessing. Their clothing is detailed and appears typical of the attire from that time. In the background, there is a simple hilly landscape visible through an open window or awning.

Below the illustration, medieval text is elegantly written in black ink, with an ornate red letter 'M' starting the passage. The parchment has a textured appearance, typical of medieval manuscripts.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and ink with watercolor on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    William B. O'Neal Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall: 17.5 x 11.3 cm (6 7/8 x 4 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2004.115.2


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Tomás Harris (not in Lugt)(his sale, Sotheby's London, 12 July 1971, no. 3); Bernard Breslauer, New York (not in Lugt); sold and rebought by Breslauer in the 1980s; (Les Enluminures, Chicago); NGA purchase in 2004.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1992

  • The Bernard Breslauer Collection of Manuscript Illuminations, The Pierpont Morgan Library, New York, 1992-1993, no. 42.

Wikidata ID

Q64571835

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