In 1464, when Flemish artist Lieven van Lathem created the illustrated manuscript page depicting “Gracienne Taking Leave of Her Father the Sultan”, he used a local flower as part of the frame for the illustration. It is the red poppy and is the inspiration for this bookmark.

Title: Gracienne Taking Leave of Her Father the Sultan c.1464
Artist/Maker: Lieven van Lathem (Flemish, about 1430 - 1493)
David Aubert (Flemish, active 1453 - 1479)
Medium:
Tempera colors, gold, and ink on parchment. The last large image in the romance shows a scene concerning the Sultan of Egypt's daughter, Gracienne, whom the knight Gillion married after mistakenly believing his wife in Europe had died. Gracienne embraces her elderly father goodbye as she converts to Christianity and embarks on her new life in Europe. To the right, Gillion's entourage readies for the journey ahead. The distance they must travel is suggested by the winding paths, steep cliffs, and the twisting river that lead into an expansive landscape.

Digital image courtesy of the Getty’s Open Content Program

BKS6503
Finish: Solid brass, electro-plated with non-tarnishing silver finish, giclee print
Dimensions: Approx. 1.75" W x 3.50" L  (Packaged in Recycled PET Plastic Sleeve with Provenance Card)