Hand A
Artists
Hand A was responsible for the six full-page miniatures in the prefatory cycle (quire 1). He designed clear, legible compositions and framed them within structures inspired by Gothic architecture. Hand A painted monumental figures with solid anatomy, the robust musculature of their lower torsos revealed by the modelling of drapery and stockings. Their gestures and faces convey controlled emotions. Superimposed elements of the compositions suggest multiple planes within the image and create a sense of depth.
David grieves at the news of Absalom’s death
David is shown twice: receiving the news of his son’s death and wringing his hands in grief. Illustrating an episode in the Old Testament Book of Kings (II xviii.24-33), this scene was painted by Hand A.