Travel Pick: Art and Archaeology in United States
The Miracles of Mary: A 17th-Century Ethiopian Manuscript

Photo courtesy of The Art Institute of Chicago

The Miracles of Mary: A 17th-Century Ethiopian Manuscript UNITED STATES CHICAGO  •  The Art Institute of Chicago Web Site  •  Ongoing     Recently acquired by The Art Institute of Chicago, this Ethiopian manuscript was made to guide and enhance the yearly cycle of celebrations in Mary’s honor, and its well-preserved pages bear witness to many years of careful use. The leather-bound book includes 158 vellum leaves and 84 paintings. The book’s principal text presents the classic group of 32 miracles standardized in the 17th century. These are preceded by prayers, hymns, and three illustrated stories from the Life of Mary and are followed by illustrated events from the Passion of Christ and scenes of martyrdom. The book is exhibitted alongside photographs of Christian Ehtiopian architecture and ritual. A new illustrated page from the manuscript will be revealed every two weeks, with a total of 16 on view throughout the course of the exhibition. The Art Institute of Chicago Web Site Contact: Tel: (1) 312 443 36 00 email this item to a friend