The magnificent oracle of the Duke of Berry

"The magnificent theologian of the Duke of Berry" is among the most striking and famous works of medieval art. Started in 1410-1412 Limburg brothers, but by coincidence it was completed only almost 80 years later by another artist, Jean Colomb

The magnificent oracle of the Duke of Berry one of the most famous medieval illustrated manuscripts. If not the most famous at all. It was commissioned by one of the representatives of the highest nobility of the French kingdom, Duke Jean I of Berry. With the name of which is also connected the current name of the timepiece: Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, which is often translated into Russian as “The Magnificent Timeline of the Duke of Berry” or “The Luxurious Timeline of the Duke of Berry”.
The early period of the Late Middle Ages is controversial: it accounted for both the largest epidemic and the longest war of that time. Towards the end of the era, the population of Europe declined several times. However, at the same time there was a significant upsurge of culture, which largely gave the basis of modernity. For example, the Renaissance and Humanism in Italy, which began to spread to some other countries in Europe. Especially at the second pole of European wealth, the Netherlands. At the same time, in France, Burgundy and Germany, medieval art is flourishing.
The development of art is always twofold: not only great artists are needed, but also those who will appreciate their work. By the beginning of the 15th century, there were already quite a lot of such people. To know, rich citizens, church hierarchs often subtly understood and appreciated works of art. Including illustrated, in those days still manuscript, books. Which already then served as an object of active collecting. They were ordered, bought and exchanged.

History of creation

The exact start date is unknown. Researchers generally agree that this happened between 1410 and 1412. Most of the manuscript was created in the years 1412 - 1416 by the Limburg brothers - Paul, Jean and Ehrman. By that time, they had already managed to create some impressive works and had a strong reputation in the eyes of their potential customers from among the French and Burgundian feudal nobility.
The Limburgs were then in the service of Philip the Bold, the Duke of Burgundy - which in itself was the best recommendation. Which brother was precisely the Duke of Berry. Jean was a keen collector, collecting gems, coins, medals, figurines. But his special passion was illuminated manuscripts. Therefore, it is not surprising that such recognized masters as Paul, Jean and Erman Limburg were invited to replenish his collection of rarities.
Most likely, the artists first worked near Paris, but then moved to Bourges, the main city of the Duchy of Berry, where Jean Berry ordered to provide them with a luxurious house.
The specific role of each of the brothers is unclear. Information from their era is not enough to judge definitely. Modern researchers have tried to identify signs that would distinguish their artistic individualities, but this did not give sufficiently convincing results. So the "Magnificent Theologian of the Duke of Berry" is considered their common, collective work.
The Limburgs did not have time to complete the Book of Hours. Both the artists and the customer have died for reasons that are not yet clear. Plague or some other infectious disease is suspected. One way or another, the work was never completed then.
Further, the manuscript changed several owners until it fell into the hands of Charles I of Savoy, who hired Jean Colomb to complete the work. In 1485 - 1489, the work was completed.
In addition, between 1416 and 1485 presumably there was another painter who participated in the creation of miniatures. Or even two: conditionally referred to as “Master of Shadows” and “Intermediate Master,” whose names are still unknown.

Conclusion

Works of art awaits a different fate. Some immediately become famous, but after the lapse of their era they lose it, remaining familiar only to a narrow circle of specialists. Others, on the contrary, become widely revered only after many years or even centuries. And only a few receive all at once and retain their glory forever. Among them is "The Magnificent Theologian of the Duke of Berry."