The Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry is the most famous manuscript in the world. Described as the ‘Mona Lisa’ of manuscripts, this collection of offices and prayers made especially for the Duke of Berry, brother of King Charles V of France, is a testament to the splendor and artistic refinement of the late Middle Ages.
Produced throughout the fifteenth century, this exceptional work was illuminated by the Limbourg brothers, eminent artists attached to the court of Burgundy and then of Berry, who revolutionised the history of art. Consisting of 121 miniatures, the Très Riches Heures capture the imagination with their depictions of historic castles, princely scenes and seasonal work in the fields that have shaped our perception of the Middle Ages.
To celebrate the restoration of this masterpiece, which has only been shown to the public twice since the end of the ninteenth century, an international exhibition has been set up, featuring almost 150 exhibits from all over the world. The exhibition provides visitors with an insight into each stage of the creation of the Très Riches Heures over almost a century and explains why the manuscript is still so popular.
The exhibition focuses particularly on the figure of Jean de Berry, his lavish patronage and his taste for books. For the first time since the prince’s death in 1416, all his books of hours known to date have been collected in one place. Manuscripts, sculptures, paintings and valuable works of art provide a comprehensive overview of the context behind the creation and dissemination of the Duke’s most ambitious work.
Due to the ongoing restoration of the manuscript, its famous calendar is on display unbound.

Van Lymborch brothers, June, Très Riches Heures du duc de Berry, Ms. 65, fol. 6r (detail), 1411/12-1416, Musée Condé, Chantilly, photo
© RMN-Grand palais (domaine de Chantilly)
Curators
Mathieu Deldicque, Lead Heritage Conservator, Director of the Condé Museum
Marie-Pierre Dion, Principal Conservator, Libraries