Art historian with an interest in visual messages
f157verso Ms M399 the da Costa Hours (c1515); Simon Bening (1483/4 - 1561). The Morgan Library, New York. Simon Bening has chosen to depict the moment the single angel visits the shepherds as told by St Luke and St Matthew in the New Testament and has set the announcement to these humble men in a… Continue reading And there were shepherds in the fields …
Hidden away in the Morgan Library in New York is this gem of a book of hours painted by the last of the male Flemish illuminators, the great Simon Bening. Folio 151verso is a full page illumination of the birth of the Christ Child. The Virgin kneels before naked newborn Christ, who is laid on… Continue reading The Nativity – By Simon Bening c 1515.
Jacob Burkhardt revolutionized art and cultural history in the 19th century, emphasizing the importance of art in understanding societal contexts. Misattributions and unknown subjects in historical portraits persist, complicating scholarship. Modern technology aids in analysis, yet many identities remain elusive, highlighting the depth of art history beyond mere aesthetics.
Articles in various publications have looked at Franny Moyle’s suggestion that Holbein left clues regarding the identification of one of his sitters of his miniatures being of Henry VIII’s fourth wife, Anna, Duchess of Cleves and not Katherine Howard as suggested by George Vertue writing in the 18th century. The recent article about Moyle’s theory… Continue reading How we know the Tudor Royals from 1485 – 1558; and who painted them.
Gill Whitlock’s article highlights the significance of wills as historical documents that provide insights into personal relationships and societal norms. She discusses Shakespeare’s will, suggesting deep connections to his family and possibly his works. The piece emphasizes the value of examining wills for understanding historical context and the evolution of probate law.
Melanie V Taylor 