Woman with a Crutch, Roman de la Rose
Date
circa 1490
Credits
- Guillaume de Lorris Creator
- Jean de Meun Creator
Format
- Book 591
- Illustration 232
Media
- paper 1093
Techniques
- illustration 102
Locations Made
- France 11
Links
This is an illustrated manuscript in the poem, Roman de la Rose, which portrays an old nun needing the use of crutches to get around due to old age and deterioration. It represents one of the many manuscripts that show portrayals of disabilities, and how these disabilities were often linked to religious belief, many seeking out miracles from shrines and priests.
These depictions spread the idea that anything could have been cured using divine intervention and miracles, but also that they are still capable and able to accomplish great achievements. For current day viewers, it gives insight into how disabilities were treated and the equipment that were used back then.
Representation of old age by with a crutch from the Roman de la Rose