The Nativity, in a historiated initial from an Antiphonary [southern Germany, late 15th century]

cutting, 87x114mm, vellum, initial ‘H’, probably from the chant "Hodie nobis celorum rex ..." for Matins on Christmas day, cut to shape, the metal used for the windows and white pigment used for the faces has darkened through oxidization, otherwise in good condition, framed and glazed

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

A very charming, brightly coloured, and heavily patterned cutting from one of the most important feasts of the year, probably made by and for the use of nuns. The iconography is based on a vision of the Nativity experienced by St Birgitta (d.1373): she saw the Virgin as blond-haired, adoring the Christ Child lying on the ground, “from whom radiated such an ineffable light and splendour, that the sun was not comparable to it”.