The Book of Hours of Joanna I of Castile (Joanna the Mad)

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Also known as "The Book of Hours of Master James IV of Scotland".

he illuminations in this exceptional Book of Hours are the work of Gerard Horenbout. Horenbout and Simon Bening, with whom he collaborated on several projects, are recognized as the leading Flemish illuminators of the first half of the 1500s. In 1515 Margaret of Austria named him court painter and valet de chambre.

The miniatures are characterised by their three-dimensional realism and great sophistication, particularly those that illustrate the cycle of the Passion. The faces charged with emotion, along with the liveliness and realism of the illuminated scenes make this codex one of the most impressive works by the Flemish artist.

The lavishness of the manuscript suggest that it was commissioned by a monarch. The references to St John the Baptist, St Ildephonsus and St Isidore are indicative of a member of the Spanish royalty – and everything points to Joanna the Mad, Queen of Castile.

• Shelfmark: The British Library, Add. Ms. 35313.
• Housed at the British Library, London
• Size: ± 237 x 163 mm.
• Brown leather binding with golden decoration.
• 482 illuminated pages and 75 full-page illuminations.

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