Amy Jeffs is studying for a PhD relating to medieval illustrated histories at the University of Cambridge. Mary Wellesley works in the Department of Ancient, Medieval and Early Modern Manuscripts at the British Library.

Detail from folio 196v of the Luttrell Psalter, (c. 1325–40), unknown artist; patron: Geoffrey Luttrell, British Library, London, photo: © British Library Board

Sexing up the cherry

The cherry has come a long way over the centuries – as medieval badges, Renaissance paintings, and a video by Beyoncé reveal