MS M.1044, fols. 11v–12r

The Wild Goat
Phoebus identified two kinds of wild goats, the ibex and the Pyrenean chamois, which he mistakenly thought were related. The latter was distinguished by its shorter, hooked horns. Both were capable of breaking a high jump with their horns rather than their legs. Peasants used their skins for making clothing and shoes, and, if nothing better was available, ate their flesh for food. Phoebus despised goat meat, claiming it caused fever. Since these animals lived in high, craggy places and they could outpace dogs, it was difficult to hunt them. In the background are the roofs and towers of a small Pyrenean village.