
David composed this poem when he was hiding in
a cave to escape Saul's anger. Here Jean Colombe has
replaced the cave with a graceful chapel and altar and
has somewhat prematurely crowned David.
"Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me:
for my soul trusteth in thee. And in the shadow of thy
wings will I hope, until iniquity pass away."
The wings of a blue angel hovering above the altar represent the Psalmist's refuge. As elsewhere in the manuscript, the gesticulating, conniving men on the left personify the enemies against whom David begs for the Lord's protection.
The capital letters on gold grounds and the border foliage are by the Duc de Berry's artists.
small image (20KB) --- large image (194KB) --- David prays for God's mercy (large) (284KB) --- Initial letters (large) (321KB)