Pair of illuminations, ca. 1540

Pair of illuminations, ca. 1540.
"History of Troy."
Gouache on vellum.
Measurements: 8 x 9 cm and 9 x 9 cm (unframed); 26 x 26 cm (framed).

This pair of gouaches on vellum illustrate episodes of the history of Troy based on a markedly medieval aesthetic. The small size of the compositions, the detailed technique and the use of powerful flat colors (especially blues, reds and greens) recall the workmanship of the books of hours, illuminated manuscripts very common in the Middle Ages. These used to contain texts of prayers, psalms, as well as abundant illuminations alluding to Christian devotion.