This Renaissance manuscript is full of the most marvellous and surreal illustrations
The 16th-century scribes of Bruges had a lot of fun illuminating this musical manuscript, because it's full of gorgeous, fascinating and downright bizarre illustrations. The song book is called the Cambrai Chansonnier and was made for the pleasure of aristocratic local Zeghere van Male. Here are a few of our favourite bits.
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1. A glimpse of everyday life in Bruges
These chaps are just getting on with the day's work, oblivious to the music above their heads.
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2. The joust
A depiction of the competitive pastime - without the heavy cavalry.
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3. Dog and plough
Here's a farmer and his best friend. Great name for a pub too.
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4. 16th century Dr. Seuss
Nope. We don't know either.
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5. Cambrai Chansonnier page
Cambrai Chansonnier
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6. Dog food
Man, furry friend and foliage.
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7. Bird and snakes
Another illuminated initial to begin this song
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8. The chanson chicks
Someone left the coop door open and they're making a mess of the lower stave.
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9. A terrifying monster
The stuff of nightmares. After eating A LOT of cheese
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10. Vase headstand
This is how they rolled in the 1500s
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11. Cambrai Chansonnier cart
Cambrai Chansonnier
