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his diptych in book form is a highly unusual document in the history of medieval manuscript illumination. What other single work unifies the art of the panel painter with that of the miniaturist? The "Book Altar" of Philip the Good of Burgundy is the most original piece in the enormous collection jointly amassed by the Dukes of Burgundy and the only known example of this type of book.

It was created for the private use of Philip, Duke of Burgundy, and unites two otherwise quite distinct art forms: the book and the altar. The manuscript is decorated with miniatures and contains a personal selection of prayers addressed to the Trinity and the Blessed Virgin. The diptych with its two panels and the manuscript are protected by an ornamental binding consisting of two leather covered wooden panels, which are joined together by two strong hinges. The portable altar is absolutely unique in the history of art.

Records show that the irreplaceable original was in the possession of the Vienna Court Library since at least 1775. Today it is kept in the Austrian National Library under shelfmark Cod. 1800. The facsimile, which is limited to 980 copies world-wide, is accompanied by a commentary volume which explains the genesis and significance of this exquisite work of art.