Catalog Archive
Auction 109, Lot 777

"[Antiphonal Leaf]", Anon.

Subject: Music

Period: 1500 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
9.8 x 14 inches
24.9 x 35.6 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.

Sturdy sheet of vellum with eight staves of four-line music and two decorative initials on each side. Two of the initials are painted with tiny faces.

References:

Condition: A

Minor soil in margins.

Estimate: $100 - $150

Sold for: $325

Closed on 12/1/2004

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