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 Archangel Michael defeating Satan. The accompanying text translates in part as: "Michael the Archangel, overseer of paradise, come to the aid of the people of God, and be pleased to defend us from the power of the enemy, and to lead us with you into the fellowship of the Lord." The text is surrounded by elaborate iron engravings on both sides that feature plants, mythical creatures and biblical scenes.

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Condition: B+

Light toning and soiling.