Leaf from a Gradual
Italian
Description
Subject Matter:
This double-sided leaf contains seven lines of Latin blackletter script with musical notation. The verso includes a large illuminated initial “S”. This leaf belongs to a medieval gradual book, also known as a choir book and contains sung devotionals or choral music for masses and saint feast days, including introits—the first sung elements often introduced by illuminated initials, usually initiated with the celebrant—tracts, alleluias, offertories, and communions. The large size of this gradual allowed for more than one chorist to use it at a time. The verso contains an Introit of Mass.
Physical Description:
A double-sided illuminated manuscript leaf with one column of seven staffs containing brown ink notes and Latin blackletter script. Some red rubrication is present. A large illuminated initial “S” is found on the verso, decorated with vegetal and floral forms in blue, green, scarlet, and gold leaf.
Usage Rights:
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