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’’)
Eight two-line illuminated initials alternating in red and white or blue and white, with a floral interior - all on a burnished gold ground, with seven extending into the margin with a delicate rinceaux border in red, blue, green, yellow burnished gold. France, c. 1475.
This leaf contains sermons concerning the Christmas Season. The first six two-line illuminated initials begin “Sermon II” by Augustinian Bishop and Saint Fulgentius of Ruspe (c. 465-527). Only eight sermons by St. Fulgentius survive. Because of his devotion to the Augustinian ideal of community life and his knowledge of Augustine's writings, especially on the topic of Grace, Fulgentius was known as the Pocket Augustine.
The two-line illuminated “I” (verso) begins: “In illo tempore…” (At that time, Joseph and Mary the mother of Jesus marveled at what was said about him).
A Breviary is composed of many books (prayers, hymns, psalms...) painstakingly but carefully written by hand, and used by monks and priests to conduct their daily services. The painted and illuminated manuscript is among the greatest artistic triumphs of the Middle Ages, demonstrating social, intellectual, religious and cultural attitudes of medieval life.
Presented in an archival 14 x 11'' mat
