Master of James IV of Scotland

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The Master of James IV of Scotland (fl c. 1485-c.1530) was a Flemish manuscript illuminator and painter active possibly in the area around Ghent. Circumstantial evidence, including several larger panel paintings, indicates that he may be identical with Gerard Horenbout. The painter's name is derived from a portrait of James IV of Scotland which may be found in a devotional manuscript; he has been called one of the finest illuminators active in Flanders around 1500, and contributed to many lavish and important books besides directing an active studio of his own.

Stylistically, the Master's miniatures are distinguished by their collections of robust and unidealized figures, set against colorful landscapes and detailed interiors. He had a knack for depicting narrative, and would frequently use obscure Biblical images when constructing his paintings; his scenes of daily life, designed for calendar illuminations, are considered particularly vivid. Most importantly, the Master was interested in experimenting with the layout of his drawings on the page. Using various illusionistic elements, he often blurred the line between the miniature and its border, frequently using both in his efforts to advance the narrative of his scenes.

The Master's work is sometimes associated with the work of the Master of the Lübeck Bible.