Original leaf from a medieval manuscript Book of Hours. 17 lines of text, ruled in red, written in Latin with dark brown and red ink in gothic script on animal vellum. (106 x 82mm – 4 3/16 x 3 ¼’’)
One two-line illuminated initial in burnished gold on a red and blue ground with delicate white penwork extending into the margins with delicate burnished gold leaves; eleven one-line illuminated initials alternating in deep blue with delicate red penwork, and burnished gold with delicate violet penwork.
Northern France or French Flanders, c. 1450-70.
The one-line illuminated “N” continues Psalm 31 (King James 32) 9-11: “Nolite…” (Do not become like the horse and the mule, who have not understanding. With bit and bridle bind fast their jaws who come not near unto thee. Many are the scourges of the sinner, but mercy shall encompass him that hopeth in the Lord. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye just, and glory, all ye right of heart).
The two-line illuminated “D” begins Psalm 37 (KJ 38) 1-9: “Domine…” (Rebuke me not, O Lord, in thy indignation; nor chastise me in thy wrath. For thy arrows are fastened in me: and thy hand hath been strong upon me. There is no health in my flesh because of thy wrath: there is no peace for my bones, because of my sins. For my iniquities are gone over my head: and as a heavy burden are become heavy upon me…).
Presented in an archival 14x11'' mat
