1475 Illuminated Book of Hours Manuscript (Unfinished)

Italy, c. 1450–1500
Tempera, gold leaf, and ink on vellum

This exquisite illuminated manuscript leaf comes from a Renaissance-era choir book or antiphonary, produced in Italy during the second half of the 15th century. The highlight is the large historiated initial “C”, executed in shimmering gold on a blue background, marking the beginning of a Book of Hours manuscript.

Surrounding the initial is a richly decorated floral border, teeming with delicate acanthus leaves, swirling vines, and polished gold bezants. In the lower margin, a charming grotesque creature—part dragon, part lion—adds whimsical vitality to the composition, a common motif in Renaissance marginalia.

The vibrant use of primary colors—ultramarine blue, vermilion red, and verdant green—alongside burnished gold reflects the artistic sophistication of Italian Renaissance illumination. The reverse is blank.

This single leaf is a fine example of late-medieval devotional artistry, offering collectors a piece of both sacred history and visual splendor.

Dimensions: approx. 8.5 x 6 inches (21.5 x 15 cm)

Ships in archival sleeve and safely packaged.

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