M5887 Illuminated Initial “E”, Leaf from an Antiphonal, Italy c. 1450
This is a genuine leaf from an Antiphonal, a liturgical book containing music for the Divine Office. It was written by hand in the 15th century. Latin text and Gregorian notation in dark brown ink. Rubrics and four-line staves in red. brilliantly illuminated foliate initial “E” in tempera and gold leaf on a ground of blue. Initial “E” opens Matthew 25:21, “Euge serve bone…” (Well done thou good and faithful servant….) Parable of the talents. Size: 21 ½ x 15 ¼ inches.