Gregorian Chant - Elaborate initial with deer - Italy c. 1778

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Original leaf from a manuscript 18th century Gregorian chant in two colors on fine hand made paper. Latin text with black square-note music on a red four-line stave. (480 x 330mm - 19 x 13’’).

From an Antiphonal produced at a religious commune in Olbia, Italy, c. 1778 (dated and signed elsewhere in the manuscript by the scribe ''J. Coudounel'').

One large illuminated initial (3 1/4’’ square) in red on a yellow ground with two dear on either side of the initial along with stars and flowers, and surrounded by an elaborate border in black.  One illuminated initial (1 3/4'' square) in red on a yellow ground with stars and surrounded by an elaborate black border; one illuminated initial (2 3/4'' square) in red surrounded by stars and flowers and an intricate black border.

This leaf continues the Mass celebrating Apostles and Evangelists. The elaborately illuminated ''T'' begins Matthew 10: 17-18: ''Tradent...'' (For they will deliver you up in councils, & they will scourge you in their synagogues...).

The illuminated ''R'' begins: ''Regem...'' (The Lord, the King of Apostles, O come, let us adore Him).  The illuminated ''A'' begins: ''Aeterna...'' (The eternal gifts of Christ the King, The apostles’ glorious deeds, we sing; And while due hymns of praise we pay, Our thankful hearts cast grief away...).

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.

Shipped unmatted

  • Inventory# IM-10338
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