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.
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; nine illuminated initials and two illuminated paraphs in liquid gold over grounds of blue or red with gold tracery.
The text continues Psalm 85 (King James 86) 3, 5: “Quoniam ad te clamavi…” (For I have cried to thee all the day. For thou, O Lord, art sweet and mild: and plenteous in mercy to all that call upon thee).
The illuminated “I” begins verse 1: “Inclina domine…” (Incline thy ear, O Lord, and hear me: for I am needy and poor).
The illuminated “R” begins Psalm 110 (KJ 111) 9: “Redemptionem…” (He hath sent redemption to his people).
The elaborate “I” begins Psalm 118 (KJ 119) 137, 124: “Iustus…” (Thou art just, O Lord, and thy judgment is right. Deal with thy servant according to thy mercy).
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
