Missal of Borso d'Este

This codex is one of the most interesting examples of Ferrarese illumination of the Renaissance. It was commissioned by Lionello d’Este in 1449, but completed eight years later in 1457 for his brother Borso. Formerly the decoration was attributed to Taddeo Crivelli, in reality it was executed by Giorgio d’Alemagna, one of the greatest Ferrarese illuminators of the fifteenth century, with the help of many assistants.

Three of the 314 leaves are illuminated with scenes and borders, and there are also 98 decorated initials, and 39 historiated initials.

The miniature on folio 7 shows a rocky landscape out of which emerges a purple, church-like building. The side of the building consists of a portico, under which David kneels, attacked by demons. To the left of the scene, a seated prophet is writing on a scroll. David is also represented in the historiated initial below.