Manuscript Leaf from a Book of Hours (incip. Passionis) 1390

This illuminated manuscript leaf, a fragment from a Book of Hours, presents us with a rich tapestry of symbols and motifs. Floral borders, birds, and a peacock dominate the scene, framing the sacred text. The peacock, a symbol of immortality and resurrection in Christian iconography, displays its vibrant plumage, linking earthly beauty with divine promise. Consider how this majestic bird, once associated with the pagan goddess Juno, was later adopted by Christianity as a symbol of Christ’s resurrection, its ‘hundred eyes’ representing the all-seeing Church. We can trace this image across time, from ancient Roman mosaics to Renaissance paintings, observing its evolution and adaptation. The symbolic weight of the peacock, laden with cultural memory, transcends its aesthetic appeal, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. Its resplendent form conveys hope and renewal, speaking to our deepest fears of mortality and desires for transcendence. Through this cyclical journey, the peacock embodies the enduring human quest for meaning and spiritual solace.