Original leaf from a medieval manuscript Breviary. Ruled for 27 lines of Latin text, written in double columns with dark brown & red ink in fine rounded gothic book hand on animal vellum. (150 x 118mm – 5 7/8 x 4 5/8’’)
Eight two-line illuminated initials alternating in red with delicate violet penwork and blue with delicate red penwork – all extending in to the margins.
Northern Italy (Padua?), c. 1460.
The two-line illuminated “S” (verso) begins I Peter 4:11 : “Si quis loquiter quasi sermons dei…” (If any man speak, let him speak, as the words of God. If any man minister, let him do it, as of the power which God administereth: thatin all things God may be honored through Jesus Christ).
The two-line “I” begins part of John 14:15-16: “Si diligitis me mandata …” (And at that time, Jesus said: If you love me, keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he shall give you another Paraclete).
A Breviary is composed of many books (prayers, hymns, psalms...) painstakingly but carefully written by hand, & used by monks & priests to conduct daily services.
Presented in an archival 14 x 11'' mat
