Description
Illuminated Initial “A” from a Choirbook Leaf onParchment- Late 15th/Early 16th Century Liturgical Manuscript Fragment
An original illuminated manuscript fragment on parchment,centered on a large decorated initial “A” in blue, green, pink, white, andgold, cut from a larger choirbook leaf with Latin text in Gothic script andsquare chant notation on four-line red staves. The fragment preserves part ofthe surrounding liturgical text and music on both sides, indicating that itcame from a substantial ecclesiastical manuscript intended for sung worship.The parchment surface shows the natural characteristics of animal skin, includingvisible follicle patterning on the hair side. A later pencil note at upper leftreads approximately, “Given me by Mr. Linder Dec 7/56,” indicating 20th-centuryownership or gift history.
This type of leaf would originally have formed part of alarge-format choirbook, likely an antiphonal or gradual, made so that multiplesingers could read from it at once. The style of illumination, the Gothiclettering, and the square notation suggest a southern European origin, probablyItalian, dating broadly to the late 15th or early 16th century.
The fragment is in fair to good antique condition, withtrimming from the original larger leaf, surface wear, areas of rubbing anddiscoloration, and later pencil inscription. Please review the photographscarefully for condition and details.
Details Medium: Illuminated manuscript on parchment Subject: Decorated initial “A” from a choirbook leaf Date: Late 15th to early 16th century Origin: Probably Italy, possibly southern Europe Fragment Size: 8.25 × 6.25 in. Script: Latin Gothic script with square chant notation on four-line red staves Framing: Unframed Condition: Fair to good antique condition; trimmed from a larger leaf, withwear, staining, rubbing, and later pencil inscription
Disclaimer: I have researched this manuscript fragment carefully and described it to thebest of my ability. It is offered as an antique illuminated choirbook fragmenton parchment, but without formal authentication, guarantee of exact date,origin, or liturgical identification. It is sold as is.
