Catalog Archive
Auction 116, Lot 859

"[Illuminated Leaf]",

Subject: Early Printing

Period: 1520 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
5 x 8 inches
12.7 x 20.3 cm
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A wonderful leaf from a Book of Hours printed on vellum during the period of transition between the manuscript culture and the printing culture. It was probably printed by Gilles and Germain Hardouin who worked in Paris at the beginning of the sixteenth century. This hand-illuminated printed leaf is perfect example of that conjunction, wherein both techniques were used together. On recto is a very large scene depicting the Crucifixion with the Virgin Mary, Mary Magdalena and St. John the Apostle gathered at the foot of the Cross. Although the illustration was initially printed, it was then beautifully painted by hand and illuminated in gold in the tradition of miniaturists. Around the picture and the text is an architectural border decorated with tassels. The verso includes printed decorative panels with printed text that is illuminated with a large hand painted initial.

References:

Condition: A

Small vellum repair in upper margin with some discoloration in margins.

Estimate: $1,200 - $1,400

Unsold

Closed on 9/20/2006

Archived