Original leaf from a medieval manuscript Book of Hours. 15 lines, ruled in red and written in Latin with dark brown ink on animal vellum. (108 x 85 mm - 4.3 x 3.4").
One three-line illuminated initial and two two-line initials in blue with an internal floral design in red and blue on a burnished gold ground; four one-line illuminated initials in burnished gold on blue and red ground. The floral border decoration contains acanthus leaves, flowers and berries (including strawberries - symbol of perfect righteousness).
France (probably Paris), c. 1440-65. From a book sold at Sotheby in 1972 attributed as the ''Style of the Master of Jean Rollin II''(active 1440-65 and named for the illuminations in numerous manuscripts made for the cardinal-bishop of Autun, Jean Rolin II).
MINIATURE PAINTING OF THE PENTECOST: (55 x 40mm) The haloed Virgin Mary is surrounded by two groups of haloed apostles, all kneeling. The Holy Spirit, in the form of a white dove, enters hovers above them emitting golden rays upward, and red downward. Four arched windows at the back.
The three-line illuminated ''D'' begins: ''Domine...'' (Thou O Lord wilt open my lips. And my mouth shall declare thy praise...). The two-line illuminated ''N'' begins the hymn: ''Nobis...'' (The grace of the Holy Sprit free unto us befall: Wherewith was overshadowed the maid of maidens all. When angel Gabriel his salutation said, The Word itself flesh became and virgin fruitful made).
Shiipped in archival 14x11'' mat.
