February

February
Duc De Berry, Book of Hours
1410

February is my favorite calendar page in the Book of Hours. Instead of castles and rich people, the scene is a snowy farm in the countryside. The sky is stormy and a lady in blue sits with her skirt pulled up, warming her feet by the fire. The farm animals are close by, and peasant work goes on outside. What was she thinking about on this dull day, 600 years ago?

Will this snow ever melt?
What are the maids whispering about?
Is the flour getting moldy?
How many potatoes are left?
When can I wash my hair?
Do varicose veins ever go away?
Are the bee hives dead, or just asleep?
Mouse. Where is the cat?
What is my daughter doing?
What are we having for supper tonight?