Lot 79
Europe, Austria or Hungary, ca. 1400 to 1425 CE. An original medieval illuminated manuscript on animal parchment cut from an early 15th century Choirbook. The page is adorned with an elaborate historiated initial "R" surrounded by a vine border. The lower interior depicts three guards asleep at Christ's tomb. Beneath them are the Three Marys arriving to find that Christ is Risen. Along the left of the initial is a column surrounded by heavenly clouds. The initial is illuminated in burnished gold and tempera colors. The vestiges of music display square notes on a four-line stave. The missing section probably portrayed the Risen Christ. The scale and ornateness of a manuscript reveal much about both the status of the manuscript and its owner. Manuscripts intended for everyday use or use by students or friars usually possessed very little illumination, and rarely ever elaborate historiated initials. By contrast, manuscripts that were commissioned by wealthy patrons or for an elite monastery oftentimes possessed gold or silver illuminations, historiated initials, and other flourishes. Clearly, this sumptous example replete with layered iconography an refined decoration, was intended for a special patron. Size: 8" L x 6.25" W (20.3 cm x 15.9 cm); in mat 14" x 12" (35.6 x 30.5 cm).
Provenance: Ex- Estate of M. Reiniger, Chicago, IL; ex Goodspeeds Bookstore, Boston, MA
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#111501
- Condition: The historiated initial "R" had a portion excised a long time ago which was placed with a piece of old animal parchment. A closed tear along the lower right. Some minor creasing as shown. Nevertheless, a wonderful example.
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