Exceptional and rare illuminated initial and Carolingian script on vellum. (117 x 38mm – 4 5/8 x 1 ½’’)
This fragment is from an early medieval manuscript (probably a Homilary), scribed and illuminated in Italy, circa late 11th century (AD 1050-1100).
The illuminated initial “I” (J) on recto is an attractive and handsome falcon hand-painted with red, blue and gray details in the wings, head and feet. It extends along the margin of 15 lines of Carolingian minuscule text. Additional portions of 10 lines of the elegant text in a hierarchical progression from uncial to minuscule script appear on the verso.
The fragment was likely recovered from a binding, and appears to be a portion of Gregory’s Homily regarding Jonah.
Presented in an archival 12 x 9'' mat
