This leaf is from the brief transitional period when the new technology of printing with movable type was combined with the more labor intensive methods of hand painting. The earliest printers were trained in the manuscript tradition and incorporated the conventions of historiated initials and illustrations into their early work. At first they left those spaces blank for the illuminator to complete entirely by hand. Later they developed printing methods (using woodcuts or iron engravings) to decorate the leaves.

This buttery vellum leaf features a hand-colored image on verso of Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, with three children in a tub beside him, illustrating one of his most famous miracles. The accompanying text translates as: "Nicholas, the friend of God, adorned with the papal crown, showed himself lovable to all." The text is surrounded by elaborate iron engravings that feature plants, flowers, and mythical creatures.

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Condition: A

Minor toning and soiling along the edges of the leaf.