Catalog Archive
Auction 103, Lot 616

"[Antiphonal Leaf]", Anon.

Subject: Music

Period: 1600 (circa)

Publication:

Color:

Size:
16 x 23 inches
40.6 x 58.4 cm
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The origins of liturgical music traditionally date back to St. Gregory the Great (d. 604), who was inspired by the Holy Dove to record the principles of 'Gregorian' chant. The Gradual contained the musical parts of the Missal and was sung from the steps (gradus) of the altar. The Antiphoner contained the musical sections of the Breviary. These terms have become interchangeable in modern times. Because of their size and complexity, these manuscripts were still being handmade in the traditional way for centuries after the introduction of printing. They were boldly hand-written and illuminated on large sheets of sturdy vellum so that the entire choir could read from one book.

Large vellum leaf with six staves of five-line music boldly written in red and black ink. Verso is decorated with a large initial "I" in blue, red and purple filigree, and a "B" in black and gray.

References:

Condition: B

Some cockling, a couple of tiny holes in text portion, 2 tears in margin (one repaired), and corners torn.

Estimate: $140 - $180

Unsold

Closed on 6/11/2003

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