Original leaf from a medieval manuscript Breviary. Red-ruled for 28 lines of Latin text, written in double columns with dark brown and red ink in fine rounded gothic book-hand on animal vellum. (175 x 125mm – 6 ¾ x 4 ½’’)
Northern France (Paris), c. 1480
One eight-line historiated initial “S” in mauve and white on a sepia ground with gold penwork, having an internal miniature of King David (ever the penitent sinner). David’s hands are clasped while floating in a body of water and looking up for help and forgiveness towards God the Father who blesses David with his right hand.
Two two-line & seventeen one-line illuminated initials in gold on red or blue ground with delicate gold penwork. Exceptionally decorative border in rich colors and liquid gold in a floral and geometric design with a hedgehog and panther-like creature!
The two-line illuminated “N” begins a hymn by Pope Gregory the Great: “Nox atra rex…” (The dusky veil of night hath laid the varied hues of earth in shade; before Thee, righteous Judge of all, we contrite in confession fall. Take far away our load of sin, our soiled minds make clean within: Thy sovereign grace, O Christ impart, from all offense to guard our heart…).
The historiated “S” begins Psalm 68 (King James 69): 1-5: “Salvum me…” (Save me, O God: for the waters are come in even unto my soul. I stick fast in the mire of the deep: and there is no sure standing. I am come into the depth of the sea: and a tempest hath overwhelmed me…).
Presented in an archival 14 x 11'' mat
