Gregorian Chant - Elaborate illuminated initial

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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 with a yellow interior surrounded by flowers and stars, a band of yellow containing stars and an elaborate black border.

This leaf continues the Mass for Martyrs. The red illuminated "M" begins:  ''Magna est…'' (Glory has been given him by your saving help. You have laid upon him majesty and splendor).

The elaborate illuminated "Q" begins Matthew 16:24:  ''Qui...'' (If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me).  

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-10370
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