Manuscript Illumination with Joseph Sold by His Brothers in an Initial V, from an Antiphonary 1490

This manuscript illumination, created by Giovanni Pietro da Cemmo in 1490, depicts the biblical story of Joseph being sold by his brothers. The scene, framed within a large initial "V" with intricate floral and gold embellishments, shows Joseph, a young boy in a red tunic, being handed over to a group of merchants. The scene is set against a mountainous landscape, with a castle in the background, and the illumination is characterized by the artist's meticulous attention to detail and the vibrant use of color. This miniature, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, provides a glimpse into the artistic practices of the late 15th century, demonstrating a blend of religious narrative and artistic virtuosity.