Book of Hunting of Gaston III
Aristocratic hunting: Phoebus's splendid guide
Gaston III, Count of Foix, known as Phoebus, was renowned for his pursuits in arms, love, and hunting. His 14th century masterpiece, the Livre de la chasse or the Book of Hunting, epitomizes his passion for hunting, which he documented meticulously between 1387 and 1389.
Dedicated to Philip the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, this treatise illuminates courtly hunting practices, delving into diverse aspects of the art.
The exemplary manuscript resides at the Hermitage Museum and was crafted towards the late 14th century in France. It stands as a testament to Gothic book artistry, adorned with exquisite illuminations, elegant frames, and elaborate initials. With seventy-eight full-page miniatures, this manuscript vividly captures Gaston III’s expertise in the art of hunting.
This comprehensive text encompasses a wide array of subjects related to hunting, from natural scientific and biological information about wildlife to guidance on training hunting dogs. The illustrations, richly detailed and adorned with gold, offer glimpses into noble riders, hunting dogs in pursuit, and various hunting scenes, providing a unique window into 14th century aristocratic society.
Originally dedicated to Philip the Bold, this book passed through diverse hands before reaching the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, leaving a legacy of medieval hunting techniques and artistic magnificence.
The facsimile edition of the Book of Hunting Gaston III is complemented by a bookcase for its conservation and a complementary study book made by subject matter experts.
This facsimile is a unique edition of 995 books numbered and authenticated by notarial deed.
Details
Tech Sheet
DATE:
Late XIV century.
ORIGINAL KEPT:
State Hermitage Museum, ms. OP N 2.
LANGUAGE:
French.
FORMAT:
330 x 230 mm.
PAGES:
224 pages.
ILUMINATION:
78 miniatures enhanced with gold and silver.
BINDING:
Bound in leather embossed with gold.
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