Late 13th–Early 14th Century Illuminated Miniature of a Bishop – Gradual Fragment (Bologna?)

This original miniature, painted in tempera on vellum, dates to the late 1200s or early 1300s and depicts a solemn bishop or archbishop standing in liturgical vestments. Likely produced in Bologna, this artwork was once part of a large Gradual used in monastic or cathedral liturgy.

The bishop, adorned with a red and white mitre and bearing a crozier and book, is framed within what was once an illuminated initial. The piece is heightened by vibrant blue, orange, and red tempera, with red 4-line staves and square Gregorian neumes visible on both sides.

• Size: Approx. 5.4 x 10.1 cm (2.1 x 4 in)

• Material: Vellum with tempera pigments

• Textual context: From a Gradual; chant lines and musical staves are visible on both recto and verso

• Date & Origin: Late 13th–early 14th century, likely Bologna, Italy

• Condition: Minor pigment loss at extremities; tipped along top edge to modern mount

A rare and visually striking example of medieval ecclesiastical art—ideal for collectors of manuscript miniatures, liturgical history, or early music.

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