Manuscript Leaf with the Annunciation from a Book of Hours

Jean Bourdichon (1457 or 1459 - 1521) was a French painter and illuminator who worked for the French royal court during the late Gothic and early Renaissance periods. He was born in Tours, France, and trained as a painter under his father, who was also a painter. Bourdichon is best known for his illuminated manuscripts, which were highly prized by the French royal family. He created several Books of Hours, which were prayer books used by wealthy and noble families, as well as other illuminated manuscripts for the royal court. Bourdichon's style was characterised by his use of bright colours, intricate designs and detailed illustrations. He often included scenes from everyday life in his illuminations, such as peasants working in the fields or children playing. In addition to his work as an illuminator, Bourdichon also painted portraits and altarpieces. He was a member of the Guild of Saint Luke, a professional organisation for artists in France. Bourdichon died in Tours in 1521, but his legacy lives on through his influential style and important contributions to French art and culture during the Renaissance.