Book of Hours

Yellow and orange pigments

Artists' Materials

Technical analyses revealed the presence of realgar, lead-tin yellow type I, an organic yellow and an ochre rich in clay minerals. The same clay-rich ochre was also used to paint orange and brown passages on some folios. The presence of a yellow lead oxide, such as massicot, is also possible, and is especially likely in the miniature on fol. 36r.

The first Calendar page for January has a full border showing a snowy cityscape with the Zodiac sign of Aquarius and the cross section of a wealthy home. A couple enjoy a feast by the fire, an elaborate version of the typical Labour of the Month.