Original leaf from a miniature medieval manuscript Book of Hours. 14 lines of ruled text, ruled in red, written in Latin with dark brown ink in gothic script on animal vellum.(70 x 54mm – 2 ¾ x 2 1/8’’)
One two-line illuminated initial and seven one-line illuminated initials in burnished gold on a red and blue ground with delicate white penwork. Bars of burnished gold and red extend along the text (verso) sprouting a floral spray top and bottom in blue, green, red, burnished and brushed gold.
Italy, c. 1460
The one-line illuminated “A” begins Psalm 44 (King James 45) 15-18: “Adducentur…” (After her shall virgins be brought to the king: her neighbors shall be brought to thee. They shall be brought with gladness and rejoicing: they shall be brought into the temple of the king. Instead of thy fathers, sons are born to thee: thou shalt make them princes over all the earth. They shall remember they name throughout all generations. Therefore shall people raise thee forever; yea, forever and ever).
The two-line illuminated “D” begins Psalm 45 (KJ 46) 1-3: “Deus…” (Our God is our refuge and strength: a helper in troubles, which have found us exceedingly. Therefore we will not fear, when the earth shall be troubled…).
Presented in an archival 14 x 11'' mat
