c 1425 Book of Hours Leaf - Ambrosian Hymn

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Original leaf from a medieval manuscript Book of Hours. 17 lines of red-ruled gothic textura script, written in Latin with dark brown ink, on animal vellum. Rubrics (headings) in red. (137 x 100mm – 5 3/8 x 3 7/8’’) 

Two illuminated two-line initials in red and blue with delicate white penwork and an internal floral motif  on a burnished gold ground  and extending into the margin with an elaborate rinceaux border of vines and flowers in red, blue and burnished gold; two illuminated one-line initials alternating in burnished gold with blue penwork and deep blue with red penwork.                                                               

Italy (probably northern), c. 1425.          

The text begins part of I Peter 5: 8-9 “quia adversaries…” ([Be sober & watch] because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, goeth about seeking whom he may devour. Resist him by being strong in faith…). 

The two-line illuminated  “T” begins the 7th century Ambrosian hymn for close of day at Compline - Before the End of Light: “Te lucis ante…” (To Thee, before the close of day Creator of the world, we pray that with Thy wonted favor, Thou wouldst be our Guard and Keeper now. From all ill dreams defend our eyes, from nightly fears and fantasies: tread under foot our ghostly foe, that no pollution we may know. O Father, that we ask be done through Jesus Christ Thine only Son, who, with the Holy Ghost and Thee, shall live and reign eternally. Amen).

The next two-line illuminated “T” begins a prayer: “Tu in nobis es domine…”.

A lovely leaf of distinctively Italian design. The two elaborate initials are exceptional, and the leaf is in excellent condition.

Presented in an archival 14 x 11'' mat

  • Inventory# IM-11529
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