Medieval Book of Hours Leaf - c 1440-50 - Magnificat - Luke

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Original leaf from a medieval manuscript Book of Hours. 15 lines, of red-ruled Latin text written in dark brown ink, in fine gothic script on animal vellum.  (170 x 120mm – 6 ¾ x 4 7/8’’)

Two two-line illuminated initials in blue or red with delicate white penwork with an internal floral motif in blue and red on a burnished gold ground; nine one-line illuminated initials in burnished gold on a blue and red ground with delicate white penwork; eleven illuminated line-extenders in blue, red, white and burnished gold. A thin burnished gold bar runs the length of text on one side, next to a beautiful rinceaux border in red, blue, green, pink and burnished gold                             

France, Loire Valley (Angers?), c. 1440-50.

The one-line illuminated “Q” continues the Magnificat or Canticle of Mary –  Luke 1: 51-55: “Quia fecit…” (For He that is mighty hath done great things to me, and holy is His Name. And His Mercy is from generation unto generations upon them that fear Him. He hath shewed might in His arm, He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart. He hath put down the mighty from their seat, and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things, and the rich He hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel, His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our Fathers, Abraham and his seed forever).

The two-line illuminated “D” begins: “Deus qui…” (O GOD, Who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that, by the gift of the same Spirit, we may be always truly wise, and ever rejoice in His consolation).

The next two-line illuminated “D” begins:  “Deus qui salutis…” (O God, who, by the fruitful virginity of blessed Mary, hast bestowed upon mankind the reward of eternal salvation…).  

Very fine leaf more than 550 years old,  with fresh bright colors and gold.

Presented in an archival 14 x 11'' mat

  • Inventory# IM-11997
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