Fig. 46.—The Map of Andrea Bianco.
One of the most remarkable monuments of the geography of the last centuries of the middle ages is the map in Hereford Cathedral, by Richard of Haldingham, not only on account of its numerous legends, but because of its large dimensions, being several square yards in area.
On the upper part of this map is represented the Last Judgment; Jesus Christ, with raised arms, holding in His hands a scroll with these words, Ecce testimonium meum. At His side two angels carry in their hands the instruments of His passion. On the right hand stands an angel with a trumpet to his mouth, out of which come these words, Levez si vendres vous par. An angel brings forward a bishop by the hand, behind whom is a king, followed by other personages; the angel introduces them by a door formed of two columns, which seems to serve as an entrance to an edifice.
The Virgin is kneeling at the feet, of her Son. Behind her is another woman kneeling, who holds a crown, which she seems ready to place on the head of the Mother of Christ, and by the side of the woman is a kneeling angel, who appears to be supporting the maternal intercessor. The Virgin uncovers her breast and pronounces the words of a scroll which is held by an angel kneeling in front of her, Vei i b' fiz mon piz de deuiz lauele chare preistes—Eles mame lettes dont leit de Virgin qui estes—Syes merci de tous si com nos mesmes deistes.—R ... em ... ont servi kaut sauveresse me feistes.
To the left another angel, also with a trumpet to his mouth, gives out the following words, which are written on a scroll, Leves si alles all fu de enfer estable. A gate, drawn like that of the entrance, represents probably the passage by which those must go out who are condemned to eternal pains. In fact the devil is seen dragging after him a crowd of men, who are tied by a cord which he holds in his hand.
Fig. 47.—From the Map in Hereford Cathedral.
Fig. 48.—From the Map in Hereford Cathedral.