Original leaf from a manuscript Book of Hours. 28 lines of text, ruled in red, written in Latin in lettre batarde script on animal vellum. Rubrics in red. (193x125mm – 7 ½ x 4 3/8’’)
One three-line illuminated initial in blue and white on a sepia ground with gold penwork and an internal floral design on liquid gold ground; two two-line illuminated initials in liquid gold on sepia ground with gold penwork; thirteen one-line illuminated initials and twelve illuminated line extenders in gold on sepia or blue ground. Vibrant and elaborate borders in colorful floral and geometric motif in red, green, blue and white – some on gold ground.
Northern France or French Flanders c. 1480.
Three-quarter miniature painting of The Visitation: The Virgin Mary, wearing blue robes with lavish gold, greets her cousin, St, Elisabeth wearing pink and gray robes, each with hand on the other’s abdomen, and each with burnished gold halos. The figure of Zachariah, father of John the Baptist, is seen on the right through the golden archway with his hands clasped; a young lady stands directly behind Mary. A building with tower is seen in the background.
This leaf opens the Hours of the Virgin – Hour of Lauds: “Deus…” (Incline unto my aid O God…) The two-line illuminated “D” begins Psalm 92 (King James 93) complete: “Dominus…” (The Lord hath reigned, he is clothed with beauty: the Lord is clothed with strength, and hath girded himself. For he hath established the world which shall not be moved. Thy throne is prepared from of old: thou art from everlasting…).
The two-line illuminated “I” begins Psalm 99 (KJ 100) 1-3: “Iubilate…” (Sing joyfully to God, all the earth: serve ye the Lord with gladness. Come in before his presence with exceeding great joy. Know ye that the Lord he is God…).
Shipped unmatted
