Pride and Solace: medieval books of hours and their readers

Collection presentation

This collection presentation of the Bruges Public Library gathers together never-before-seen medieval books of hours, paintings and objects from the collections of the Public Library, Musea Brugge, the Jean van Caloen Foundation, and the Government of Flanders. The pages change on 2 July so they are not exposed to light for too long. This also allows visitors to enjoy the story twice over.

Little books full of fervent prayers and breathtaking miniatures; books of hours were more precious than jewels to people of medieval times. They served as a powerful tool to ward off calamity and disease and to prepare a favourable fate in the afterlife. Today, they offer us an intimate look into the desires and fears of our ancestors.

But there is more: why did influential ladies and gentlemen commission portraits of themselves with a book of hours by masters such as Petrus Christus or Hans Memling? What did this reveal about their identity, status and ambitions? This collection presentation invites you to look beyond the glittering gold leaf and vibrant miniatures. Immerse yourself in a world of hope, intentions and image and discover the deeper meaning of these medieval bestsellers.

Together with book publisher Hannibal, the Bruges Public Library is publishing an accessible book on the meaning and use of books of hours, with new contributions from international experts and numerous beautiful illustrations. Biekorf Main Library is running the parallel exhibit ‘Boekje Troost’ [Book of Consolation] featuring contemporary photographic portraits of readers with a book that is close to their hearts.