Picturing past Politics: French Kingship and History in the "Mirouer historial abregié de France"
Kathleen Daly
This article examines evidence for the meaning and purpose of iconography in cycles miniatures a historical text composed fifteenth century, "Mirouer historial abregié de France" (ca. 1451). It was probably by Noël Fribois, notary secretary, then counselor, Charles VII France (r. 1422-1461), to whom one version is dedicated. Three manuscripts are illustrated. Vatican Library, MS reg. lat. 767 contains only three line drawings (attributable Coëtivy Master) series spaces miniatures, which indicate scheme illustration. Catalogue descriptions manuscript sold Ashburnham sale, 1901, lot 405 (location unknown), belonged Antoine Bourgogne (1421-1504), provide some cycle, attributable Parisian artist. However, Oxford, Bodleian Bodley 968 full cycle fifteen Master (d'Anjou, count) Maine (to recension "Mirouer" found this dedicated). could have been illustrated with formulaic coronations battle scenes drawing on existing models. here proposed, however, that Oxford presents careful pictorial exposition particular French history, centering divine protection crown, imperial vocation kings, their role as protectors Church. The choice topic use symbolism suggest Fribois himself may developed or advised
Gesta