MS M.1044, fols. 46v–47r

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Gaston III Phœbus, Count of Foix
1331–1391

Livre de la chasse

Paris, France
ca. 1406–1407
381 x 290 mm

Bequest of Clara S. Peck, 1983

MS M. 1044
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Laying on the Hounds
Dogs, too, had to be trained for the hunt. This was done with the aid of a lymer, or "tracking dog," which has here located the scent of a stag left during the night. The master, in the middle, encourages the berner, who was in charge of the pack of hounds. It was his task to keep the pack together until the game was located. The berner would then let loose his best hounds in pursuit of the stag and uncouple the rest. Dogs were not allowed to go astray, and lazy ones were to be goaded with shouts and calls. The berner would follow the pack and maintain order until the hart was taken.

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Image courtesy of Faksimile Verlag Luzern