"Liber de natura rerum" by Thomas of Cantimpré (1201-1272) is a frequently referenced source for medieval beasts. It is a scientific encyclopaedia written from 1225 to 1240. The earliest known surviving version is from 1250 and is not illustrated. #medievalmanuscripts #medievalbeasts

Our final medieval tranes is from another version of "Der Naturen Bloeme", this one dated 1300-1325. This one makes me think of a small terrier wearing a headscarf more than a helmeted rabbit. #medievalmanuscripts #medievalbeasts #beasts #tranes

Despite being described as basically a helmeted rabbit, this particular medieval tranes appears to have cloven hooves as well as a dog-like body and head. It is from a c1350 version of "Der Naturen Bloeme". #medievalmanuscripts #medievalbeasts #beasts #tranes

As an Australian, this particular medieval tranes immediately makes me think of Ned Kelly and his home-made armour. This image is from a 13th century version of "Liber de natura rerum". #medievalmanuscripts #medievalbeasts #beasts #tranes

This week's medieval beast is the tranes which is described as being like a rabbit but with a natural helmet on its head which makes it stronger and fiercer. This tranes is from a c1287 version of "Der Naturen Bloeme". #medievalmanuscripts #medievalbeasts #beasts #tranes

Our final medieval ibex from a 13th century French bestiary is shown landing on its horns. It is also the medieval illustrator's favourite generic "dog-like" beast. #medievalmanuscripts #medievalbeasts #ibex

The "Helmingham Herbal and Bestiary" from c1500 is fast becoming my favourite for its illustrations. This is its version of an ibex. #medievalmanuscripts #medievalbeasts #ibex

This medieval ibex from a c1250-1260 "De bestiis et aliis rebus" looks like it's going to struggle to land on its horns from that angle. #medievalmanuscripts #medievalbeasts #ibex

Our medieval beast this week is the ibex which is described as a wild goat with horns so strong it can jump from heights and land on them without damage as in this c1240 illustration. #medievalmanuscripts #medievalbeasts #ibex

This smiling echeneis looks like it is pushing the ship rather than holding it back. It is from a 13th century French version of "Liber de natura rerum". #medievalmanuscripts #medievalbeasts #echeneis