French 15th-Century Manuscript Sells for Two Million Euros

A 15th-century French manuscript with intricate miniature paintings sold at a Paris auction on Friday for two million euros, the Drouot auction house said.

Commissioned in the third decade of the 15th century, the book was put on sale by the French firm Millon. It earlier belonged to Jean Andre Hachette, who had acquired a huge collection of ancient books and drawings.

The 530-page manuscript contains 22 large and 38 miniature paintings depicting religious and country scenes.

Drouot said it was probably commissioned by John of Lancaster, the Duke of Bedford, who acted as regent of France for his nephew who later became King Henri IV.