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Master of the Cypresses

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of an illuminated manuscript letter with elaborate designs and mythical creatures. The painting depicts an ornately drawn letter with intricate patterns and vibrant colors. The letter appears surrounded by a blue creature with a goat-like head at the top and a bird-like body extending around the sides. Inside the letter, there are two identical purple creatures facing each other, nestled among green foliage and red flowers. The background is a shimmering gold. Shapes around the border of the letter give the impression of a flaming or radiant design, characteristic of medieval illuminated manuscripts.

Artwork Details

Date
1430s
Medium
miniature on vellum
Dimensions
8537 × 8113 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original