Codice Trivulziano 2164 Facsimile Edition

The Trivulzio Codex 2164, preserved in the Trivulziana Library, is a Book of Hours from the first half of the 15th century created in Paris, as evidenced by the numerous saints from the Paris region included in the calendar, as well as from the distinctive decorative style. The codex features rich full-page miniatures with window-shaped fields bordered by delicate gold strips. Interestingly, the small scenes positioned along the margins typically relate directly to the central illustration rather than to the accompanying text. Almost every page is adorned with ornate friezes framing the scenes, which display remarkable variety in both colors and subjects: flowers, fruits, animals, colorful birds, and figures dressed in period costumes. The Hours of the Virgin, given its liturgical importance, stands as the most lavishly illustrated section of the entire Book of Hours. While little is known about the artist of the Trivulzio Codex beyond his connection to the French school, many scholars attribute its miniatures to the "Bedford Master." This artist is also credited with creating a breviary (now in Paris) and a Book of Hours (now in London) commissioned by John of Lancaster, Duke of Bedford.