Original leaf from a scarce Renaissance manuscript Gradual. The opening leaf of the parent manuscript states this was a “Gradual for the Carthusian Order.” (183 x 128mm 7 ¼ x 5 1/8’’)
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.
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 with, a butterfly – symbol of the Resurrection of Christ, on a liquid gold ground; three illuminated initials and two illuminated paraphs in liquid gold over grounds of blue or red with gold tracery.
This leaf continues the celebration of Pentecost. The illuminated “F” begins: “Factus est…” (Suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a mighty wind coming where they were sitting, alleluia; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, speaking the wonderful works of God, alleluia).
The large illuminated “C” begins “Cibavit alleluia…” (He fed alleluia). The illuminated “S” begins “Spiritus…” (The Spirit of our Lord hath replenished the whole world, Alleluia. And that which containeth all things…).
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
