Nativity of Christ, miniature on a single leaf from a Book of Hours, in Latin [France (Paris), c.1400-10]

single leaf, 160x120mm, vellum, with a miniature for Prime in the Hours of the Virgin, 18 lines, 106x65mm, the verso with ivy leaves in outer margin, borders cropped, illumination rubbed with some slight retouching to miniature, small hole in outer margin

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."

The intimate depiction of the Nativity with Mary resting, while Joseph attends to the new-born Christ Child, was a popular theme in the Middle Ages and often occurs in Books of Hours around 1400. The slender figures, sparsely decorated setting, and diapered background can be found in the work of Parisian book illuminators from the late 14th and early 15th century. This artist belongs to the same stylistic milieu as the Master of Johannete Ravenelle, an artist active in Paris around the turn of the century (E.L. Sandgren, The Book of Hours of Johannete Ravenelle, 2002).