Original leaf from a medieval manuscript Book of Hours. 15 lines of text, ruled in red, written in Latin with dark brown and red ink in gothic script on animal vellum. (202 x 145mm – 8 x 5 ¾’’)
One two-line illuminated initial in blue and white with a floral interior in blue, white and red on a burnished gold ground; three one-line illuminated initials and one illuminated line extender in gold on a blue and red ground; elaborate rinceaux borders in red, green, gold, blue, liquid and burnished gold – with strawberries (symbol of perfect righteousness).
France (Paris), c. 1450.
The one-line illuminated “A” continues Psalm 23:7-8 (King James 24): “Attollite…” (Lift up your gates, O ye princes, and be lifted up, O eternal gates: and the King of Glory shall enter in. Who is this King of Glory? The Lord who is strong and mighty: the Lord mighty in battle).
The one-line illuminated “G” is the prompt to begin the Glory Be (Glory be to the father…).
The two-line illuminated “S” begins: “Sancta maria…” (Holy Virgin Mary, mother of virgins and daughter of the King of all kings, bestow your consolation of us through you we might deserve to have the reward of the heavenly kingdom…).
An attractive, larger than usual, leaf in excellent condition from what must have been a sumptuous manuscript.
Shipped unmatted
