Christine de Pizan's "The Book of the Queen"

The Book of the Queen is a collection of the works of Christine de Pizan (1364-1430) assembled in 1410-1414 for Isabel of Bavaria, queen consort of Charles VI of France, and produced under the author's supervision. (Harley MS 4431, ff 1r-177v) Some authorities think she did some of the scribal work as well. The contents include many of Christine's ballads and her retellings of the classical myths. Christine is an interesting character because she was one of the first if not the first European woman to support herself as a professional writer. In the first illustration (above) Christine presents the book to the queen. Nice bed.

Christine in her study. I am enchanted by this notion, an author commissioning illustrations that show herself at work.

Christine addresses Louis D'Orleans.

Christine travels with a group of courtiers who have amazing taste in hats.

And now some illustrations from the classical retellings. Here Queen Penthesilea leads her Amazons to aid the Trojans.

Andromeda being rescued from a monster by Perseus, riding on Pegasus.

Scary monster.

Venus with her followers.

Cerberus is no match for this doughty Hercules.

And the strangest version you will ever see of Narcissus gazing at his own reflection.