Books of Hours (Phaidon Miniature Editions) [Paperback]

Editors of Phaidon Press (Author)

Book Description

Series: Phaidon Miniature Editions | Publication Date: June 13, 1996

Originally an addition to the end of the "Psalter" or "Book of Psalms", the first separate "Book of Hours" known in England was attributed to the artist William de Brailes between 1230 and 1260. By the end of the 13th century the "Book of Hours" had become a favourite prayerbook of ordinary people throughout Western Europe and in the years that followed its popularity spread. Often small and highly decorated, these books provide an insight into the daily life of the Middle Ages. This book brings together examples, many of them reproduced in their original size. The pages are grouped in their standard sections and positioned in the order in which they would have appeared in a traditional "Book of Hours". Short texts provide an explanation of the scenes depicted and the significance of the various prayers and devotions.

Product Details

• Paperback: 1 pages
• Publisher: Phaidon Press (June 13, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0714834645
• ISBN-13: 978-0714834641
• Product Dimensions: 4.8 x 4 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #88,837 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #2 in Books > 4-for-3 Books > Arts & Photography > Art > Religious
  • #4 in Books > 4-for-3 Books > Arts & Photography > Graphic Design > Calligraphy
  • #4 in Books > 4-for-3 Books > Arts & Photography > Art > Instruction & Reference > Calligraphy

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

62 of 63 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Small gem of illumination plates, August 19, 2000

By 

Elise C. Boucher "merouda" (West Allis, WI USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Books of Hours (Phaidon Miniature Editions) (Paperback)

A very small book containing 85 color plates of miniatures culled from various books of hours. The plates are reproduced at or near their original size, giving an idea of just how truly small most of these pictures actually are.

The plates come from the best manuscripts owned by several museums. Most of the art is Franco-Flemish from 1475-1525, but there are a few earlier works and/or Italian works represented, as well.

There is very little text. This book is intended, I believe, to provide just enough information to pique the curious. The art is splendid, though, and a better, more portable visual reference could not be found. I liked this book so much that I bought two copies; one to use as a reference when painting, and another to just enjoy perusing.

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful book, January 9, 2007

By 

Mary Bellis Waller (Milwaukee) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Books of Hours (Phaidon Miniature Editions) (Paperback)

Lovely tiny book with absolutely gorgeous illustrations from real medieval books of hours, with jewel tones and lovely compositions. The binding should be different to allow it to more easily open fully.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Books of Hours, October 27, 2007

By 

R. Gurley - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Books of Hours (Phaidon Miniature Editions) (Paperback)

I'm an art student, and we often study books of hours, but it's always just slides, so we don't get to hold an example. This little book is a wonderful example of the actual books of hours from this time period. It really gives you an appreciation for the craftsmanship of the artists; the intricate detail is so delicate and tiny, and it's clearly printed in this book. I highly recommend it!