Gregorian Chant - Christmas Day c 1525 - Spain

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Original leaf from a manuscript Spanish Antiphonal on animal parchment.  (560 x 365mm – 22 x 14 3/8’’) 

The manuscript text and music (six lines of music on a red five-line stave) were beautifully executed by hand dark brown ink over 400 years ago!!!

Spain, c. 1525 –this leaf is from the Winter Volume (pars hiemalis) which comprised the Offices of Advent, Christmastide and Epiphany.

One illuminated initial in blue  with red interior and exterior penwork;  One exceptional knot-work (cadel) initial in dark brown ink heightened with yellow.

This leaf continues prayers for the Celebration of Christmas DayThe first line begins: “[Hodie] per totum…” ([Today] throughout the world the heavens flow with honey).

The knot-work “H” begins”  “Hodie…” [Today has brought the dawn of the new redemption, of the restoration of the old, of everlasting happiness). 

The illuminated “D” begins:  “Descendit…” (The true God, begotten of the Father, came down from heaven…).  

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.

Shipped unmatted

  • Inventory# IM-11386
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