Catalog Archive
Auction 118, Lot 930

"[Antiphonal Leaf]", Anon.

Subject: Music

Period: 1400 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
11.2 x 16.2 inches
28.4 x 41.1 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.

Nice, large vellum leaf with five staves of four-line music carefully written on both sides in black ink with an initial on each side, one in red and the other blue.

References:

Condition: B

Some binding adhesive on one edge, not affecting sheet.

Estimate: $100 - $140

Sold for: $75

Closed on 3/6/2007

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