MEDIEVAL LATIN MANUSCRIPT LEAF ON VELLUM (PARCHMENT) – c. 1400 – Commentary on the Gospel of John

MEDIEVAL LATIN MANUSCRIPT LEAF ON VELLUM (PARCHMENT) – c. 1400 – Commentary on the Gospel of John

A genuine medieval manuscript leaf written by hand on animal parchment approximately six centuries ago.

This attractive leaf features a formal Gothic book hand arranged in two columns with red rubrication and alternating red and blue lombard initials. The text is written in Latin and appears to be from a theological commentary discussing the Gospel of John, including passages concerning Martha, Lazarus, and Christ’s raising of Lazarus.

The manuscript contains numerous rubricated chapter or lesson divisions (“Lectio”) and was likely produced for use in a monastic, ecclesiastical, or university setting during the late Middle Ages.

Details

• Date: c. 1380–1430
• Material: Genuine vellum (animal parchment)
• Language: Latin
• Script: Gothic book hand
• Layout: Double column
• Decoration: Red and blue lombard initials with red rubrication throughout
• Approximate Size: 5 x 8 inches (see ruler photographs for exact dimensions)
• Condition: Good medieval condition with expected age-related wear, minor edge irregularities, and evidence of its original binding structure.

Unlike modern reproductions, every word on this leaf was individually written by a medieval scribe more than 500 years ago. Such manuscripts were produced before the advent of widespread printing and represent the painstaking work of professional scribes working within the intellectual and religious culture of medieval Europe.

This is an original medieval manuscript leaf and not a facsimile or reproduction.

A wonderful example for collectors of medieval manuscripts, biblical history, church history, theology, paleography, or early bookmaking.