Book of Hours Vellum Calendar Leaf August & September c. 1515

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Original leaf from an important printed Book of Hours – in an unusually large quarto size. The leaf measures 9.5 x 7 inches ( 244 x 175 mm ). French text, printed in black, on animal vellum.

Noted for its DECORATIVE BORDERS - paneled surrounds are historiated (containing identifiable scenes or figures) or inhabited. Printed by Thielman Kerver . Paris, c. 1515.

Surrounding the calendar are scenes of Saints & feasts celebrated in the month listed. For August: St. Lawrence and the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary; for September: St. Matthew writing his gospels, and St. Michael the Archangel slaying the satanic dragon.

Panels along the top of each side depict the Labor for the month (August: Threshing; September: Sowing) & Zodiacal sign, per the 1515 calendar (August: Virgo; September: Libra).

In purpose & format, printed Books of Hours followed the older manuscript examples. The more luxurious were printed on vellum, as is this specimen.

Left of the list of saints’ days are repeating series of letters A - G called Dominical Letters since they help find Sundays. At the far left is a column of Roman numerals i - xix called Golden Numbers to indicate appearances of new moons, & counting ahead 14 days, full moons throughout the year.

Shipped in archival 14x11'' mat.

  • Inventory# IM-4330
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