Manuscript Cutting: Historiated Initial ‘M’ from an Antiphonary showing Saint Giustina disputing with Maximian
Girolamo da Cremona (active 1460-83)
Historiated Initial ‘M’ from an Antiphonary showing Saint Giustina disputing with Maximian
Padua, before 1462
Water-based pigments, gilding and ink on parchment, 210 x 190 mm
Victoria and Albert Museum (No. 817-1894)
This historiated initial depicts Saint Giustina of Padua disputing with Emperor Maximian, taken from an Antiphonary used in liturgical devotion at the Convent of Saint Giustina, Padua. Framed by a vibrant ‘M’ in ultramarine and gold leaf, the scene is a fine example of how visual devotion was expressed in mid-fifteenth century Padua, in its intricate detail and convincing sense of perspective. Saint Giustina, in crimson, stands firm, embodying spiritual strength, while the surrounding architecture and figures draw the viewer’s eye into the composition.
The visual devotion in this cutting transcends decoration, emphasising the importance of both storytelling and artistic skill in early Renaissance Italy. Girolamo da Cremona’s work shows a sophisticated understanding of space, perspective, and human emotion. The scene is set in a carefully rendered portico, with marble columns and a coffered ceiling, grounding the narrative in a timeless, yet contemporary architectural space. Saint Giustina stands confidently, her braids and crimson attire enhancing her role as a symbol of unwavering faith and devotion. Maximian, surrounded by courtiers, is depicted with a regal presence, his attire and posture contrasting sharply with the saint’s more modest figure. The use of a compositional framework, with the letter ‘M’ enclosing the scene, visually emphasises the sanctity of the event and the theological significance of the confrontation. This miniature’s sophisticated design, including the acanthus scrolls and fluted columns, reflects the high level of craftsmanship associated with manuscript illumination at this time, and the importance of visual language in conveying religious content.