MS M.81, fols. 55v–56r

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Worksop Bestiary

England, possibly in Lincoln or York
ca. 1185
215 x 155 mm

Purchased by J. Pierpont Morgan (1837–1913) in 1902

MS M.81, fols. 55v–56r
Description: 

Swallow
The swallow, shown perched on a white patch suggesting a cloud, was thought to capture and eat its prey in the air, like those who reject earthly possessions for the things of heaven.