Original leaf from a French medieval illuminated manuscript Book of Hours. 17 lines of hand-ruled text written in Latin with black ink in fine bold gothic textura script on animal vellum with rubrics in red.
Two two-line illuminated initials, eleven one-line illuminated initials, two illuminated paraphs, and two illuminated line-extenders alternating in burnished gold with blue penwork and blue with red penwork – many extending into the margins.
Origin: Paris, France - circa 1425-1450 Size: 6.1 x 4.5 inches, (155 x 114mm)
The two-line illuminated “X” begins the hymn: “Christe qui lux es…” (Christ, who art the light and day, You drive away the darkness of night, You are called the light of light, For you proclaim the blessed light. We beseech you, Holy Lord, Protect us this night. Let us take our rest in you; Grant us a tranquil night. Let our sleep be free from care; Let not the enemy snatch us away, Nor flesh conspire within him, And make us guilty in your sight. Though our eyes be filled with sleep, Keep our hearts forever awake to you. May your right hand protect Your willing servants. You who are our shield, behold; Restrain those that lie in wait. And guide your servants whom You have ransomed with your blood. Remember us, O Lord, Who bear the burden of this mortal form; You who are the defender of the soul, Be near us, O Lord…).
Provenance: Written for the Use of Paris – Rare inclusion of St. Bruno in the Litany indicates possible ownership by a monk of the Carthusian Monastery of Vauvert (Order of St Bruno), Paris (established 1257, dissolved 1792).
Shipped unmatted
