The Art of Illumination

Belles Heures of Jean de France, duc de Berry, 1405–1408/9. Herman, Paul, and Jean de Limbourg (Franco-Netherlandish, active in France by 1399–1416). French; Made in Paris. Ink, tempera, and gold leaf on vellum; 9 3/8 x 6 5/8 in. (23.8 x 16.8 cm). The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, The Cloisters Collection, 1954 (54.1.1).

Saint Catherine Cycle
Catherine is Beheaded, Folio 19v

Finally Catherine is executed, and as she bends forward, her hair naturalistically falls before her. The three figures at left have emotionally distinct reactions: Maxentius is resolute and severe; his bearded advisor is more compassionate; and the rough figure behind, more indifferent. The energetic and athletic executioner has his shirttails tied back to give greater freedom of movement.