Petites Heures d'Anne de Bretagne

Anne of Brittany (Anne de Bretagne, 1477-1514) was the last independent Breton ruler, who became queen to two successive French kings, Charles VIII and Louis XII. In all, four Books of Hours from her possessions have survived: two miniature editions, one of middle-size format and a codex of extraordinary size and weight, destined for use in a chapel rather than in a private room. When she died in 1514, she was praised for her patronage of the arts and her predilection for luxury. Particularly the Grandes Heurs confirm this reputation.

According to different scholars, the Petites Heurs were illuminated by a late follower of Jean Bourdichon. However, the pairing of two miniatures in a harmonious union, a practice that recalls diptychs, is reminiscent of earlier attempts of this kind from the hand of Jean Poyet. It can be assumed that the unknown artist was a follower of Jean Poyet.

The double page (folios 37v and 38r) shows such a diptych-like solution in the Petites Heurs. To the right appears the majestic figure of the Virgin as the Queen of heaven To the left, Apostles and other saints have gathered in adoration.