A beautifully preserved medieval illuminated manuscript leaf on vellum (animal skin), dating to circa 1350–1450, originating from Europe. Italy. This striking example of Gothic craftsmanship features elegant textura script meticulously hand-lettered in rich brown ink across both sides, accompanied by vibrant rubrication and finely rendered initials in red and blue.
The recto is adorned with a large illuminated initial, intricately decorated with geometric and foliate motifs, while delicate pen flourishes extend into the margins, demonstrating the skill and artistry of a professional scriptorium. The verso continues with carefully structured text and ornamentation, revealing the continuity of the manuscript’s original use. The presence of decoration on both sides highlights its authenticity as a working liturgical page rather than a later decorative fragment.
Executed on supple vellum, the surface retains a beautiful natural patina, with subtle tonal variations and signs of age that enhance its historical character. The text is drawn from the Latin Psalms, traditionally used in devotional practice, adding both spiritual and cultural significance. The text translates in English as:
“Lord, hear my prayer,
and let my cry come to you.
Do not hide your face from me;
in the day when I am in trouble, incline your ear to me.
On whatever day I call upon you,
hear me quickly.
For my days have vanished like smoke,
and my bones have dried up like firewood.
I am stricken like grass and my heart has withered,
so that I forget to eat my bread.
From the voice of my groaning,
my bones cling to my flesh.
I have become like a pelican in the wilderness;
I am like an owl among the ruins.
I lie awake,
and I am like a solitary sparrow on a rooftop.
All the day my enemies reproach me;
those who praised me swear against me.
For I have eaten ashes like bread
and mingled my drink with weeping.”
Presented in a custom frame, this rare...
Category
15th Century and Earlier Italian Medieval Antique Paint Furniture
MaterialsAnimal Skin, Glass, Wood, Paint