15th Century Leaves with Charming Zoological or Botanical Presence in Each of Their Panel Borders

TEXT IN LATIN.

SEVEN LOVELY MEDIEVAL VELLUM MANUSCRIPT LEAVES FROM A BOOK OF HOURS, OFFERED INDIVIDUALLY.

(Paris: ca. 1500). 165 x 115 mm. (6 1/2 x 4 1/2"). Single column, 18 lines, in a gothic book hand.

Rubrics in red, line fillers in pink and blue with gilt bezant(s) and white embellishment, most leaves with one or more one-line initials in burnished gold on pink and blue ground with white embellishments, and some with one or more two-line initials in blue or pink with white embellishments, enclosing leaves or flowers on burnished gold ground, each side with panel border of acanthus, sprays of flowers and/or fruit, and gilt bezants, five with a well-realized bird or insect in the borders, two with with small mounds of fruit, or flowers emerging from a golden vase. Some leaves with small marks, smudges, or other minor imperfections, but generally in excellent condition, being quite clean, fresh, and altogether attractive.

Featuring high-quality illuminated initials, a fine border on every page, and the liberal use of painted and burnished gold, these leaves clearly come from a luxurious Book of Hours produced by an accomplished workshop. Although a common element is the appearance of prominent blue acanthus, every panel border shows a slightly different design, including those with flowers emanating from golden chalices, mounds of grape vines, or charming, well-realized birds or bees. These leaves are especially delightful, carefully painted, and very well preserved. (ST20810F)

Price: $450.00