Original leaf from a medieval manuscript Book of Hours. 17 lines of ruled gothic textura script, written in Dutch with dark brown ink, on animal vellum. Rubrics (headings) in red. (148 x 100mm – 5 ¾ x 4’’)
One seven-line illuminated initial in deep blue with delicate white penwork and a pink interior with delicate gold penwork on a burnished gold ground which extends around the entire text as a burnished gold bar with segments of blue and pink with white penwork. One two-line illuminated initial in burnished gold on pink and blue ground with delicate white penwork; nine one-line illuminated initials alternating in blue and red. Margins, recto, are illuminated in a graceful floral and vine design in burnished and brushed gold, red, green and blue with a bird resting on a branch!
The Netherlands, c. 1475
The seven-line illuminated “H” begins the first of the Seven Penitential Psalms – Psalm 6 - complete : “Heere…” (O Lord rebuke me not in thy indignation, nor chastise me in thy wrath. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am weak: heal me, O Lord, for my bones are troubled. And my soul is troubled exceedingly: but thou, O Lord, how long? Turn to me, O Lord, and deliver my soul: O save me for thy mercy’s sake…).
The Dutch (Low Countries) were the first to break the tradition of using Latin in Prayer Books and Books of Hours. In England, France and Italy, Latin continued to be the primary liturgical language throughout the 1400’s.
Presented in an archival 14 x 11'' mat
