Original title leaf from a manuscript 18th century Gregorian chant in two colors on fine handmade paper with Latin text. (480 x 330mm - 19 x 13’’)
From an Antiphonal produced at a religious commune in Olbia, Italy, c. 1778. Dated and signed on this leaf by the scribe “J. Coudounel”. Verso Blank.
An unusual production – entirely done by hand, not in a printing press. The Lettering and designs are a combination of meticulously cut stenciled elements and freehand.
The date and origin (Olbia, in the year 1778) is surrounded by a border in red and yellow. The text is surrounded by an elaborate floral border in red.
In the upper right border of the origin and date is a wonderful watermark of a sun with a face!
Antiphonals contain chants for the canonical hours of the Divine Office: first vespers or the vigil of great feasts, matins, lauds, prime, terce, sext, none, vespers and compline. They were used by priests, monks and nuns in churches and religious enclaves. The large size allowed them to be seen by multiple members of a choral section.
The detail showing the watermark has been darkened to enable view of the sun with face watermark.
Shipped unmatted
