Few Books of Hours survive in their original bindings because they were well-handled, sometimes worn out, and often customized by successive owners. In its unrepaired blind-stamped leather binding with original clasps (and remnants of purple velvet chemise), this manuscript is therefore exceptional. Wide margins, rich coloring, and beautiful script all signal a luxury production painted by an artist, the Master of the Paris Entries, who worked on commission for figures in the court circle.

Courtesy Les Enluminures, New York/Chicago/Paris