IM-13684: Original leaf from a medieval illuminated manuscript Book of Hours. 16 lines of red-ruled gothic textura script, written in Latin with dark brown ink, on animal vellum. Rubrics (headings) in red.
Northern France (Paris) , c. 1420-25.
Size: 176 x 130mm – 7 x 5 inches
Two illuminated two-line initials, eleven illuminated one-line initials and eight illuminated line-extenders in gold on red & blue ground with delicate white tracery. Delicate International Gothic Rinceaux style panel borders of vines and flowers in burnished gold.
The one-line illuminated “M” begins the prayer: “Maria…” (Mary, Mother of Grace, Mother of mercy, shield me from the enemy & receive me at the hour of my death).
The one-line illuminated “G” begins the prayer: “Gloria…” (O Jesu! born of Mary bright! Immortal glory be to Thee; praise to the Father infinite, & Holy Ghost eternally. Amen).
The two-line illuminated “I” begins Psalm 125 (King James 126) complete: “In convertendo…” (When the Lord brought back the captivity of Sion, we became like men comforted. Then was our mouth filled with gladness; & our tongue with joy. Then shall they say among the Gentiles: the Lord hath done great things foe them. The Lord hath done great things for us: we are become joyful. Turn again our captivity, O Lord, as a stream in the south. They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. Going they went & wept, casting their seeds. But coming they shall come with joyfulness, carrying their sheaves).
The two-line illuminated “N” opens Psalm 126 (KJ 127): “Nisi…” (Unless the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it…).
This leaf was written and illuminated in France at a pivotal point in the Hundred Year’s War - England defeated France decisively in Agincourt in 1415 and took Paris in 1420. Not until Joan of Arc’s heroism (1428-29) could France regain hope of restoring its capital. The book from which this came was likely in daily use at that time.
Shipped unmatted
