New Year’s Gifting & the Magi

The new year is a time that has inspired gifting and exchange throughout history in recognition of new beginnings. Yet, the date of New years has moved around frequently as calendars have shifted and it has been celebrated in many different ways. Today, we take a look at some of the different celebrations that occurred in medieval Europe, ending with a quick look at an iconic moment of gifting painted in many Books of Hours: the Adoration of the Magi. What were medieval joyaux and what does Quasimodo have to do with new years celebrations? Find out today on the Les Enluminures podcast. 

 

Resources: 

Göldene Rössl 

Minnekästchen Casket with Two Lovers 

Thourotte Hours (BOH215) 

Book of Hours by the Master of the Prayerbooks of 1500 (BOH205) 

The Rise of the Black Magus in Western Art