02-10-2020, 06:35 PM
With a medieval image, whether it be in a manuscript, a painting or a golden chain, the first assumption should always be that it is inspired by some other visual example.
Now admittedly, the Burgundians employed some of the most innovative artists of their time. Someone like Van Eyck created archetypes that were copied in many later works. So it is possible that the visual representation of the fleece as a complete animal suspended by the belly was invented based only on text.
However, since the Burgundian chain was only introduced in 1430, its appearance in our manuscript is starting to be at odds with the fashion of the Zodiac which is outdated by the 1430's. Either way, it would be of interest to know if there were any available examples which may have inspired the design of the chain.
Now admittedly, the Burgundians employed some of the most innovative artists of their time. Someone like Van Eyck created archetypes that were copied in many later works. So it is possible that the visual representation of the fleece as a complete animal suspended by the belly was invented based only on text.
However, since the Burgundian chain was only introduced in 1430, its appearance in our manuscript is starting to be at odds with the fashion of the Zodiac which is outdated by the 1430's. Either way, it would be of interest to know if there were any available examples which may have inspired the design of the chain.