Jean Corbechon, Livre des propriétés des choses

Book 2: On good and bad angels

Texts and Images

This book consists of 20 chapters in which the author discusses the hierarchy of angels. The names of the various types of angels are explained, as well as their nature and characteristics. Lucifer and other wicked angels who rebelled against God and were banished from heaven are discussed in the final two chapters. In addition to the introductory miniature, showing Christ in Glory with good and bad angels, this book contains two subsidiary images, one for chapter 7 (fol. 23v) and another for chapter 15 (fol. 27v).

The miniature is divided into four tiers. At the top is the Trinity, with God the Father supporting the crucified Christ and the dove of the Holy Spirit descending. Directly below, a pope and cardinal are shown with three red seraphim. An emperor and a pope are depicted in the next section and the final one shows three bearded men accompanied by angels.

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