Original leaf from a scarce Renaissance manuscript Processional Gradual. (183 x 128mm 7 ¼ x 5 1/8’’)
The opening leaf from the parent manuscript states this was a “Gradual for the Carthusian Order.” France, c. 1550 – From the Royal Workshop of Henri II. Small highly illuminated manuscript music was very uncommon and expensive, usually reserved for royalty, the very wealthy or members of religious orders from notable families. Original stitch holes evident where leaf was carefully sewn together prior to the calligraphy being applied. Thread is no longer present – recto line three at left.
Eight lines in red ink with text and musical notation in black ink (on a four-line stave), on animal vellum. Headings, rubrics and ruling in red. One large illuminated initial in pink with delicate white penwork and floral decoration on a liquid gold ground; twelve illuminated initials and two illuminated paraphs in liquid gold over grounds of blue or red with gold tracery.
This leaf begins the Vigil of St. John the Baptist. The elaborate illuminated “N” begins part of Luke 1: 13, 15, 14: “Ne timeas…” (Fear not, Zachary, for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elizabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John: For he shall be great before the Lord; and he shall be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And many shall rejoice in his nativity).
The illuminated “D” begins Psalm 20 (King James 21) 2: “Domine…” (In thy strength, O Lord, the king shall joy; and in thy salvation he shall rejoice exceedingly).
Graduals contain the musical chants for the proper of the Mass: introits, graduals, tracts, alleluia, offertory and communion verses, and sequences for special feasts. They may also include chants for the ordinary of the Mass: Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Agnus Dei and for the introductory ‘asperges’ rite.
Presented in an archival 14 x 11'' mat
