In 1480, Jacob Donche, a Flemish aristocrat, commissioned a book of hours to celebrate the occasion of his wedding to Philippa Utenhove. After five hundred years, this book remains in excellent condition. The binding has been replaced, but in all other aspects, the book, now called Kirby 1 in The Ella Strong Denison Library, is unchanged since its production. Written in precise script in both Latin and Flemish, and embellished with intricate line fillers and caddling, this book represents a work of art and history, and an excellent example of a medieval book of hours. By far, the most extraordinary elements of this book are its illustrations. Created with the finest of illumination techniques in a style unlike any found in painting, Kirby 1 is filled with intricate illustrations, from the several full-page illuminations to the many initials and miniatures. This book provides a valuable illustration of the history and artwork of the fifteenth century.

Fifteenth-Century Flemish Books of Hours	by Ross M. Richardson
An essay which explains the general characteristics of Books of Hours. Included are historical, social, and political factors leading to the rise of Flemish Books of Hours.
An Introduction to Illumination Techniques	by Jeffrey Werbin
An introduction to techniques used in medieval illuminated manuscripts. Specifically, this essay explores the tools, techniques, and artisans involved in the illumination process.
The Book of Hours as a Wedding Gift	by John C. Cloutier
An explanation of why Kirby 1 was an appropriate wedding gift by means of a comparison of its images to those of the Hours of Jeanne d’Evreux.
Art of Fifteenth-Century Flanders: A Comparison between Painting and Illumination	by Melissa Chase
A look at the art of Fifteenth-Century Flanders as well as a comparison of these trends with those found in Kirby 1.
The History of Kirby 1	by Joseph W. Friesen
A history of the book, Kirby 1, with descriptions of the environment in which it was created as well a detailed provenance, or history of the ownership of the book.
Accessory Pages
Glossary A brief glossary of technical terms used thoroughout the site. Bibliography A listing of sources used in the production of this site. Images Images from Kirby 1, available in high resolution. Links Other useful sites pertaining to books of hours, illuminated manuscripts, and the Claremont Colleges. Contact Information How to reach the authors of the site.

This page would not be possible without the assistance of many people. Please visit our acknowledgement page in thanks of all these people.