Catalog Archive
Auction 121, Lot 845

"[Antiphonal Leaf]", Anon.

Subject: Music

Period: 1500 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
11.8 x 16.3 inches
30 x 41.4 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.

A fine vellum sheet with beautiful manuscript, four-line music from a medieval antiphonal or choir missal. The sheet has a total of three historiated capitals with delicately filigreed blue and red ink. Ruled in red with dark brown ink for the notes and Latin text.

References:

Condition: B+

A couple small smudges on the verso and two small holes where the oak gall ink has oxidized.

Estimate: $275 - $350

Sold for: $200

Closed on 9/26/2007

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