Original leaf from a medieval manuscript Breviary. 31 lines written in Latin in double columns with dark brown and red ink on animal vellum. (183 x 135mm – 7 3/8 x 5 ¼’’)
Six two-line illuminated initials alternating in red and white or blue and white, four with a floral interior, and two with geometric interior - all on a burnished gold ground extending into the margin with a delicate rinceaux border in red, blue, green, yellow burnished gold; numerous one-line illuminated initials alternating in dark blue with delicate red penwork and burnished gold with delicate violet penwork – many extending into the margins.
France, c. 1475.
The two-line illuminated “D” begins Psalm 118 (King James 119) 81-88: “Defecit…” (My soul hath fainted after thy salvation: and in thy word I have very much hoped…).
The two-line illuminated “I” continues verses 89-96: “In eternim…” (Forever, O Lord, thy word standeth firm in heaven. Thy truth unto all generations: thou hast founded the earth, and it continueth…).
The two-line illuminated “Q” continues verses 97-104: “Quomodo…” (O how I loved thy law, O Lord! It is my meditation all the day. Through thy commandment, thou hast made me wiser than my enemies…).
The two-line illuminated “L” begins verses 105-112: “Lucerna…” (Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my paths. I have sworn and am determined to keep the judgments of thy justice…).
The two-line illuminated “I” continues verses 113-120: “Iniquos…” (I have hated the unjust: and have loved thy law. Thou art my helper and my protector: and in thy word I have greatly hoped).
The two-line illuminated “F” continues verses 121-124: “Feci…” (I have done judgement and justice: give me not up to them that slander me…).
Presented in an archival 14 x 11'' mat
