I have another listing with a similar page from the same book. Offered here is an authentic antique illuminated manuscript leaf from a large ecclesiastical choir book or antiphonal. This substantial double-sided leaf is handwritten on vellum or parchment and features Latin liturgical text, square-note Gregorian chant notation on red four-line staves, rubricated details, decorative initials, and an elaborate architectural illumination rendered in rich shades of blue, green, red, and sepia. The manuscript is numbered CXCIII on one side and CXCIV on the reverse, indicating consecutive pages 193 and 194 from the original choir book. Large-format antiphonals of this type were traditionally placed on a lectern so that several singers could read the music together during religious services. Based on the script, musical notation, Roman-numeral foliation, and decorative style, the leaf is believed to date from the late 16th to early 17th century, approximately 1575 to 1625. It is likely Southern European and may be Spanish or Italian. The exact date, geographic origin, and attribution have not been independently authenticated. The architectural illumination is especially striking, featuring columns, towers, domed forms, floral ornament, and vivid blue architectural details. The manuscript measures approximately 21.5 inches by 15 inches. Condition is consistent with considerable age and handmade construction. There is discoloration, waviness, staining, edge wear, surface marks, possible pinholes, small losses, and irregularities throughout. These characteristics are visible in the photographs and form part of the manuscript’s historic character. An exceptional piece for a collection of illuminated manuscripts, Gregorian music, early calligraphy, religious art, or historic European decorative arts. It would display beautifully in a custom museum-style double-sided glass frame.
