The artwork, titled “Calendar – Labors of the Months,” created by the Limbourg brothers in 1416, is an exquisite example of the International Gothic art movement. Rendered on vellum, this illustration is part of the esteemed series “Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry,” which is presently housed in the Musée Condé in Chantilly, France.
The artwork vividly portrays the various labors associated with each month of the year, depicting scenes of medieval life with remarkable attention to detail and color. Each month features a unique, intricate illustration, situated below an ornate semicircular astrological calendar. The settings range from winter scenes of feasting and sheltering from the snow to summer depictions of agriculture, showcasing the harmonious interaction between people and nature. The structured landscapes and buildings provide a glimpse into both the rural and courtly environments of the time. This masterpiece not only functions as a calendar but also as a testament to the daily lives and societal routines of the 15th century. Its use of vivid colors, meticulous detailing, and layered compositions exemplify the grandeur and elegance inherent in the International Gothic style.
