Original leaf from a medieval manuscript Breviary. 18 lines of ruled gothic textura script, written in Latin with black ink, on animal vellum. Rubrics (headings) & versal initials in red.
Three two-line illuminated initials and numerous one-line illuminated initials alternating in deep blue and sepia, and red blue - with the guide letters visible in most. (123 x 85mm).
Northern Germany or Netherlands, c. 1425.
The two-line illuminated ''C'' begins a 7th century hymn for Advent: ''Conditor...'' (Creator of the stars of night, Thy people's everlasting light, Jesu, Redeemer, save us all, and hear Thy servants when they call. Thou, grieving that the ancient curse should doom to death a universe, hast found the medicine, full of grace, to save and heal a ruined race. Thou camest, the Bridegroom of the Bride, as drew the world to evening tide, proceeding from a virgin shrine, the spotless Victim all divine. At whose dread Name, majestic now, all knees must bend, all hearts must bow; and things celestial Thee shall own, and things terrestrial Lord alone...).
The two-line illuminated ''V'' begins a 6th century hymn for Advent: ''Vox clara...'' (A thrilling voice by Jordan rings, rebuking guilt and darksome things: vain dreams of sin and visions fly; Christ in His might shines forth on high. Now let each torpid soul arise, that sunk in guilt and wounded lies; see! the new Star's refulgent ray shall chase disease and sin away...).
The two-line illuminated ''X'' begins the hymn: ''Christe...'' (Jesu, the Father's only Son, whose death for all redemption won, before the worlds, of God most high, begotten all ineffably...).
Shipped in an archival 14x11'' mat.
