15th Century Medieval Gregorian Chant, St. Joseph & Virgin Mary
By: Unknown
Date: 15th Century
Dimensions: 28 x 19 inches (71 x 48 cm)
This illuminated vellum manuscript is beautiful example of medieval liturgical music used in Christian worship, specifically in Gregorian chant. The manuscript is hand-scribed in Latin with square note neumes on a four-line staff, characteristic of this sacred musical tradition. The piece would have likely been used in a church or monastic setting, where monks or choirs would chant the verses during religious services. The use of illuminated initials, as seen in the decorative letters, reflects the artistic embellishment common in high-quality medieval manuscripts.
The top portion of the text opens with an invocation, referencing Saint Joseph as it mentions "In festo Ioseph Ad mat." The Latin text that follows speaks to prayers for deliverance from corruption and harm. This suggests that the sheet may have been used during a feast day dedicated to Saint Joseph or a similar event where intercession is sought through prayer. The red and blue initials with their fine detailing further elevate the sacredness of the document.
The reverse side continues with more liturgical chant, including the phrase “qui mater illa coepit,” which means “who took on that mother.” This is likely part of a prayer or hymn dedicated to the Virgin Mary, reflecting themes of divine maternity and purity, both central to Christian liturgical music and prayers. The prayer praises Mary as the "sole virgin" who bore Christ, possibly part of a larger Marian antiphon. The initials on this side are also intricately designed, featuring red and blue ink-work.
Materials and Craftsmanship
The manuscript is made from vellum, a parchment of high quality made from animal skin. The vellum shows signs of wear, such as creases and stains, but these are typical for artifacts that were used frequently in worship. The large scale of the manuscript, combined with the clear and elegant Gothic script, suggests that it was intended to be seen from a distance, likely during choir or community prayers. The vellum remains flexible and in overall good condition, despite its evident use over centuries.
Condition: This Vellum Gregorian chant is in fine condition with some soiling, faint pencil markings, and some fading in the lower half of the music side. The overall eye-appeal is quite nice with bright colors in the motif letters.
Inventory #92233
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