MINIATURIST, German
(active 1210s in Weingarten)

Berthold Sacramentary, folio 119r

1215-17
Manuscript (MS M.710), vellum, 293 x 204 mm
The Morgan Library and Museum, New York

The picture shows folio 119r. It contains a large historiated initial D which depicts "Arcangel Michael slaying the dragon" on a blue background. The initial includes the Latin words Deus qui (God who).

Archangel Michael slaying the dragon is a powerful Christian symbol from the Book of Revelation (Rev. 12:7). It shows the leader of God's holy army defeating Satan, who takes the form of a great dragon. This scene represents the ultimate victory of good over evil.

The folio contains an embroidered repair.