Folio 61v - the eagle, continued.
it is rejected as unworthy of its kind and of such a father and, being unworthy of being begotten, it is considered unworthy of being reared. The eagle condemns it not in a harsh manner but with the honesty of a judge.
- Commentary
-
Commentary
Text
The eagle.
Illustration
Two panels of eagles fishing and plunging into the rejuvenating spring.
Comment
The reference to catching fish means that the bird must be a sea eagle or osprey. The white tailed eagle is found in the Mediterranean. Although this is an original Physiologus subject, the illustrations of this bird are among the most varied, indicating the lack of an accepted common source. The lower section of the illustration is damaged. The upper edge of the illuminated frame abuts the spliced parchment repair with such precision that it appears the repair took place after the writing was complete on the recto, but before the painting began on the verso.
- Transcription and Translation
-
Transcription
solis inflexerit, quasi degener et indignus tanto patre reicitur\ nec estimatur educatione dignus, qui fuit indignus suscep\ tione. Non ergo eum acerbitate nature, sed iudicii integritate con\Translation
it is rejected as unworthy of its kind and of such a father and, being unworthy of being begotten, it is considered unworthy of being reared. The eagle condemns it not in a harsh manner but with the honesty of a judge.
